Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a widely used technology that allows users to access and control remote computers over a network. While it offers convenience and efficiency, RDP sessions leave behind traces, including logs, connection history, and temporary files. In some scenarios, users may wish to maintain privacy and avoid leaving a digital footprint on the remote system.

Incognito Mode in RDP, though not a built-in feature, refers to techniques used to hide or minimize traces left behind after an RDP session. This article explores why traces are left in RDP, what information gets recorded, and how users can take steps to ensure a more private RDP experience.

Understanding How RDP Leaves Traces

When an RDP session is initiated, several records and logs are created on both the local and remote systems. Some key traces include:

1. Connection History

Windows keeps a list of previously connected IP addresses or hostnames in the Registry.
These details can be accessed in: arduinoCopyEditHKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Terminal Server Client\Default
The MRU (Most Recently Used) list stores the last connected hosts.

2. Event Logs

Windows Event Viewer logs every RDP session under: vbnetCopyEditEvent Viewer > Windows Logs > Security
Event IDs like:
- 4624 (Logon)
- 4647 (Logoff)
- 4778 (Reconnect session)
- 4779 (Disconnect session)
- 4800 (Workstation Locked)
- 4801 (Workstation Unlocked)
- 5156 (Network connection allowed)
These logs can reveal who logged in, from where, and for how long.

3. Cache and Temporary Files

RDP creates temporary cache files in: pgsqlCopyEditC:\Users\Username\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Terminal Server Client\Cache
This contains session thumbnails, performance optimizations, and even password auto-fill data if saved.

4. Remote User Profiles & Session Data

If multiple users are using the remote system, Windows keeps track of user sessions.
tsadmin.msc (Terminal Services Manager) shows currently active and past sessions.

Given these traces, a true Incognito Mode for RDP requires clearing these logs, disabling tracking mechanisms, and using secure access methods.

Methods to Enable an “Incognito Mode” in RDP

While there is no single Incognito Mode toggle, the following steps will help minimize traces left behind after an RDP session.

1. Clearing RDP Connection History

To remove saved IP addresses and hostnames:

Open Registry Editor (regedit).
Navigate to: arduinoCopyEditHKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Terminal Server Client\Default
Delete the MRU entries.

Alternatively, run this PowerShell command:

powershellCopyEditRemove-Item -Path "HKCU:\Software\Microsoft\Terminal Server Client\Default" -Recurse

2. Deleting RDP Cache & Temporary Files

Run the following command in Command Prompt to clear cache:

powershellCopyEditdel /f /s /q "%USERPROFILE%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Terminal Server Client\Cache\*"

Alternatively, navigate manually:

Delete cache files from: pgsqlCopyEditC:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Terminal Server Client\Cache
Clear temporary folders using: shellCopyEdit%temp% and delete any leftover files.

3. Disabling RDP Event Logging

Since Windows logs RDP connections, disabling logging helps prevent tracking. To stop logging:

Open Event Viewer (eventvwr.msc).
Go to: vbnetCopyEditEvent Viewer > Windows Logs > Security
Right-click on Security logs > Disable Logging.

Alternatively, in PowerShell, disable specific logs:

powershellCopyEditwevtutil cl Security

Note: This may require admin privileges.

4. Using a Jump Server or VPN

A Jump Server (Bastion Host) acts as an intermediary between your machine and the final remote desktop.

Connect first to the Jump Server (a temporary host).
From there, use RDP to access the target machine.
Once finished, wipe logs from the Jump Server.

Using a VPN with a different IP address before connecting via RDP also prevents direct tracking of your location.

5. Enabling Ephemeral RDP Profiles

In environments where multiple users share remote desktops, ephemeral user profiles automatically delete session data upon logoff.
Configure Group Policy (gpedit.msc) to remove cached user profiles: pgsqlCopyEditComputer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > User Profiles Enable “Delete user profiles older than a specified number of days on system restart”.

6. Using Portable RDP Clients

Some users prefer portable RDP clients that do not store session history or registry data. Examples include:

mRemoteNG (a multi-tab RDP manager)
Royal TS (for secure remote sessions)
Devolutions Remote Desktop Manager (advanced security features)

These tools often allow anonymous RDP access without storing session data.

Advanced Techniques for Enhanced Privacy

For users requiring higher security, additional methods can further reduce RDP traces.

1. Restricting RDP Session Logs via Group Policy

Open Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc).
Navigate to: pgsqlCopyEditComputer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Remote Desktop Services > Remote Desktop Session Host
Enable:
- “Do not allow logging on locally”.
- “Set time limit for active but idle RDP sessions”.

2. Running RDP in a Virtual Machine (VM)

Using a VM (like VirtualBox, VMware, or Hyper-V) to launch RDP ensures that:

All traces remain inside the VM.
After the session, deleting the VM wipes all data.

3. Utilizing Remote Desktop Gateways

Instead of direct RDP connections, a Remote Desktop Gateway (RDG) routes traffic through an encrypted HTTPS tunnel, obscuring logs.

Conclusion

While RDP does not offer an official Incognito Mode, a combination of manual log clearing, security policies, and advanced routing techniques can significantly reduce traces left on both local and remote machines.

By following the methods outlined above, users can enhance privacy, prevent unauthorized tracking, and maintain a secure remote access environment. Whether for personal use, corporate security, or cybersecurity research, adopting these techniques ensures a clean and trace-free RDP session.