When attempting to RDP from a Windows 7 computer to a Windows 8.1, the smart card may not be redirected to the remote Windows 8.1 computer. The user instead sees a message to connect a smart card.
Assuming the Windows 7 computer has the Remote Desktop Connection 8.1 client update installed, you may need to also install hotfix KB2913751 if it is not already present on the system to correct this issue.
