How to Use Windows Remote Desktop Connection

Windows Remote Desktop Connection is a built-in feature that allows you to access and control another Windows computer over a network connection. This can be extremely useful for remote troubleshooting, accessing files, or working on a computer that is physically distant. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of setting up and using Windows Remote Desktop Connection.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure you have the following:

• Two Windows computers: one will be the host (the computer you want to remotely access) and the other will be the client (the computer you will use to connect to the host).
• Active network connection on both computers.
• Appropriate permissions and access to both computers.

Step 1: Enable Remote Desktop Connection on the Host Computer

1. On the host computer, go to the Control Panel.
2. Click on System or System and Security, depending on your Windows version.
3. Click on Remote settings, usually located in the left sidebar.
4. Under the Remote Desktop section, select the option that suits your needs:
   • Allow connections from computers running any version of Remote Desktop - Allows connections from any version of Windows Remote Desktop client.
   • Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication (recommended) - Provides enhanced security by requiring network-level authentication.
   • Don't allow remote connections to this computer - Disables remote desktop connections (ensure this option is unchecked).
5. Click Apply or OK to save the changes.

Step 2: Find the Host Computer's IP Address

To connect to the host computer, you need to know its IP address. Here's how to find it:

1. On the host computer, press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type cmd and press Enter to open the command prompt.
3. In the command prompt, type ipconfig and press Enter.
4. Look for the IPv4 Address under the network adapter connected to your network. This will be the IP address you need to connect later.

Step 3: Connect to the Host Computer from the Client Computer

1. On the client computer, press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type mstsc and press Enter to launch the Remote Desktop Connection application.
3. In the Computer field, enter the IP address of the host computer you found in Step 2.
4. Optionally, click on the Show Options button to adjust additional settings, such as display resolution, local resources, or user account.
5. Click Connect to initiate the remote desktop connection.
6. If prompted, enter the credentials (username and password) for the host computer and click OK.

Step 4: Remote Desktop Connection Options

Once connected to the host computer, you have various options available:

• Full-Screen Mode: Press Ctrl + Alt + Break to toggle between full-screen and windowed mode.
• File Transfer: Use the File Transfer feature to copy files between the client and host computers.
• Clipboard: The clipboard is shared between the client and host computers, allowing you to copy and paste text or other data.
• Remote Desktop Settings: To adjust the connection settings or disconnect, click on the Settings (gear) icon at the top of the remote desktop window.

Step 5: Disconnect or End the Remote Desktop Session

To end the remote desktop session or disconnect from the host computer, follow these steps:

1. On the remote desktop session window, go to the top bar.
2. Click on the X (Close) button to disconnect and return to your client computer.

Note: If you want to end the session and lock the host computer, press Windows key + L on the remote desktop session.

Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to use Windows Remote Desktop Connection to access and control another Windows computer remotely.

Remember to properly secure your devices and networks to protect your privacy and data.