Remote Desktop port number oddity, windows firewall issue?

I've recently had problems with remote desktop not working. If it doesn't show up, I'm using Windows 7 Professional, 64 bit. I had been using a port other than 3389 for obvious reasons. I changed the registry key a long time ago. This was the key I changed:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp\PortNumber

I changed it from 3389 to, let's say, 2001. It worked perfectly for months with that new port. Recently, I'd say in the last 2 months, it stopped working for no apparent reason. When I change the registry key back to 3389, it works fine. I can deal with it on port 3389 but I'd rather have an obfuscated port number. Any suggestions? If you need more information from me, just let me know. Thanks in advance.

When its setup to 2001 or what ever it is try the command line approach and see if that works. Only thing i can see for it not working is a windows firewall related issue. Which to open port 2001 you will need to use windows firewall with advanced features and specify the port to open.

mstsc /v:IPaddress:2001

Well, that's embarrassing. Went to the advanced features, added the port and it worked fine.

The only oddity then is why did it work in the past and stop working randomly? If anyone knows if Windows updated their firewall software or whatever, I'd be curious. But for now my problem is solved and I have my "hidden" rdp port. Thanks for your help.

Glad it all got worked out for you.

Why it quit working we will probably never know. Something could have gotten changed. Doesnt really matter just that its working now.

Remember to make the thread as solved.

Have a great day.