How to use Remote Desktop in Windows

Using a remote desktop connection is a now common practice for many professionals. The possibility to access a server from the “outside” is an essential part of terminal services and help desk work. Home users also benefit from remote desktop control, using it to connect easily with their external work computer. But establishing the connection isn’t all that simple. Luckily there are now quite a number of remote desktop tools to make the task easier. What exactly is a remote desktop connection? What should you look out for? And which practical alternatives are available?

The term remote desktop refers to a connection between your own computer (client) and another computer (server). Provided the technical requirements are met, the user can initiate a remote desktop session from practically anywhere. They’ll then receive — depending on the clearance — full access to the remote computer. Picture it like this: From your home computer, you can access all of the programs, files, and network resources of your work computer, just as if you were sitting at your desk.

In order to set up a remote desktop connection at all, you first have to observe some technical requirements. The control of a remote computer only works successfully if it’s connected to the same network or via the internet. You also need to make sure that the server is turned on at the desired time and is available over a functioning network connection. Make sure as well that the remote desktop setting is enabled on the server. Lastly, ensure that you can access the respective network from the outside and have permission to create a remote desktop connection. You can obtain permission by entering a remote desktop user on the user list and having the password for the connection setup.

Microsoft offers remote desktop users an in-house network protocol: The Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). The RDP is, in a way, the control tool of the terminal services (Remote Desktop Services) and ensures the execution of remote desktop commands. It controls the terminal server as well as the terminal client. It also regulates the transmission of screen content, keyboard input, and mouse movements over the network. A server version of Windows is not necessary.

Third step: In the query window, enter the computer name. If you want to establish the connection over the internet, you also need the external IP of the host system. Alternatively, you can also enter a host name if you are using Dynamic-DNS services (“Dynamic Domain Name System”). With the help of DynDNS technology, dynamic IP addresses can be linked to stable domains that allow you to connect to the target system. Then you enter your username into the corresponding field.

Fourth step: Your username as well as the associated password need to already be included in the user list. A remote desktop connection can only be established with your access data. After successfully logging in, you can see the desktop view of the remote computer.

Dangers of Windows: Firewall and WLAN router

Windows comes as standard with an active firewall that protects your computer from unauthorized access. But this can get in the way of remote support or a remote desktop connection. Since the RDP has its own port (3389) for communicating with other computers, the protection of the firewall is used for communications outside of the network, i.e., over the internet. This means that a connection won’t be able to be established. In order to use a Windows remote desktop, you need to add an exception rule in the firewall settings:

1. Click on “Start” and select “Control Panel”.
2. Click “System and Security”.
3. Under “Windows Firewall” select “Allow a program through Windows Firewall”.
4. Click on “Change settings” and click the box next to “Remote desktop”.
5. Click on “OK” to apply changes.

The WLAN router can also become a stumbling block and hinder the establishment of a remote connection. Unfortunately, no settings for activating RDP services can be found on the router itself. For that, you have to set up port forwarding in your wireless router. The Windows Remote Desktop Protocol uses TCP-Port 3389. To forward to a router, like one from LinkSys, do the following:

1. Select Settings -> Internet -> Port forwarding -> New port in the configuration menu.
2. Under “Port forwarding active for” select the “Other applications” option.
3. Under “Label” enter “Remote desktop”.
4. Under “Protocol” select the setting “TCP”.
5. In the “From port” and “On port” fields, enter “3389”.
6. Under “On IP address” enter the IP address of the target computer.
7. Click on “Apply” to confirm the changes.
8. Under Settings -> Advanced settings -> Internet -> Dynamic DNS check the box next to “Use Dynamic DNS”.
9. Either activate your LinkSys router or your chosen DynDNS.
10. Save the entire configuration under Settings -> Advanced settings -> System -> Save settings.

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