A remote desktop gives you the flexibility to work anywhere you need to—and it’s easier to get started than you might think. In this article, you’ll learn how to set up and configure a remote desktop on any Windows PC.
A remote desktop environment can be accessed and controlled from a remote location. It enables someone to remotely connect to a computer or server—including all its applications, files, and data—as if they were sitting in front of the physical machine.
With a remote desktop setup, a user can access their work computer from home, while traveling, or from anywhere with an internet connection. This is particularly useful in remote and hybrid work scenarios and for providing IT support from a distance.
A remote desktop environment includes two components: a client application that is installed on the user’s local device, such as their personal computer, and a server application that runs on the remote device the user wants to access, such as their work computer.
The client application establishes a remote connection to the server application, then displays the desktop environment, applications, files, and data on the user’s local device. To the person connecting to the remote desktop, it’s as if the two devices were interchangeable. Remote work collaboration and screen sharing are just as straightforward as they would be on the host PC.
Windows 10:
Windows 11:
Remember that for connections to a PC to be successful, that computer must be turned on, have a network connection, and allow remote connections through its firewall.
Now that you’ve finished setting up your host desktop’s Remote Desktop Service, you’ll be able to connect to it with your login credentials from any local Windows device you choose. Connecting is simpler than the setup process.
These are the steps to take if multiple people are using Windows Remote Desktop on the same private network. Sometimes, however, there can be good reasons to allow access to a user outside your network, such as granting access to an IT professional who is troubleshooting problems on your computer or network.
There are two methods to enable remote access to a computer outside your network:
Of these two options, it’s strongly recommended that you choose a VPN. Port forwarding opens up your PC to the internet, increasing your security risk.
When someone outside your network connects to a VPN, your Remote Desktop client behaves as if it’s part of the same network. It’s a more secure, easy-to-use option for setting up a remote desktop connection that adheres to remote work best practices. There are many VPN providers and plans available to choose from.
The Microsoft Remote Desktop app makes it easy to connect to other computers with a remote desktop connection.
If you’re a Windows 365 Cloud PC user, creating a remote desktop environment is even easier. Windows 365 is a cloud-based service that creates a virtual machine—or Cloud PC—for each of your users. In this model, the user’s operating system, apps, data, content, settings, and storage are in the cloud instead of on a local machine, making Cloud PC a secure and flexible way to work remotely.
You can connect to a Cloud PC anytime through your browser. Simply log in with your credentials and go. But you’ll have a much smoother experience if you connect through the Remote Desktop app.
To connect to your Cloud PC using Remote Desktop:
Now your remote Cloud PC connection is ready to use and should operate just as it would on your usual computer.
A benefit of using the Remote Desktop app is that it enables you to get connected with a device that doesn’t use the Windows operating system, making it even simpler to work from anywhere and to manage remote workers. To use these devices, complete your remote desktop setup on the PC you’re connecting to, then follow the instructions for the operating system you’ll be using remotely.
To connect from a macOS device:
To connect from an iOS device:
To connect from an Android device:
When setting up a remote desktop environment, there are several settings you should be aware of to create an enjoyable and optimal experience. These include:
If your remote desktop connection stops working, there’s a Microsoft Virtual Agent troubleshooter to help you reestablish it. If you’d rather troubleshoot yourself, consider the following common issues:
Some common remote desktop solutions include Microsoft Remote Desktop, Chrome Remote Desktop, AnyDesk, and TeamViewer. Each remote desktop solution comes with a unique set of features, strengths, and weaknesses.
Choosing the best remote desktop solution for your needs will depend entirely on your needs, budget, technical requirements, and expectations for security and compatibility.
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