How to Use Windows 11's Remote Desktop Feature

How to Use Windows 11’s Remote Desktop Feature

The Remote Desktop capability is one of the most powerful capabilities that Windows has to offer; nevertheless, it is sometimes underestimated. It gives you the ability to access and operate another computer from anywhere in the globe, provided that you have the correct configuration. With Windows 11’s distant Desktop, you may do a variety of tasks, like connecting to your work computer from the comfort of your own home, providing assistance to a family member who needs help with troubleshooting, and managing numerous computers from a distant location. This article takes you through all of the steps you need to do in order to successfully enable, configure, and use Remote Desktop.

1. What Exactly Is a Remote Desktop?

Microsoft’s Remote Desktop function allows you to connect to another computer across a network or the internet. Once connected, you may access the other machine’s files and applications. After the connection has been established, you will be able to see the desktop of the other computer, access files, execute applications, and carry out operations as if you were sitting in front of it. It is extensively utilized by information technology professionals, remote workers, and students since it is convenient and helps them be more productive.

2. Prerequisites for Utilizing Remote Desktop in Windows 11

Prior to the establishment of the system, there are several conditions that must be met:

Remote Desktop is an application that may be used on the Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education versions. It is not included in the Windows 11 Home edition.
Network Connection: An internet or local area network (LAN) connection is required for each of the PCs.
Access to the Account: Your user account, which is the one you use to log in, must be granted authorization to access the computer.
IP Address or PC Name: In order to proceed, you will be required to provide either the device name or the IP address of the host computer.
Even if you are using Windows 11 Home, you may still use third-party options like as TeamViewer or AnyDesk.

3. Activating Remote Desktop on the Computer that Serves as the Host

The computer that you are attempting to connect to remotely is the host computer.

Navigate to Settings, then to System, and then to Remote Desktop.
Flip the switch to the other position. Turn on the function for Remote Desktop.
In the pop-up box, pick the “Confirm” button to confirm your selection.
In the section titled “How to connect to this PC,” you will find the name of the personal computer (PC). Make sure to write it down.
This allows the system to be able to accept Remote Desktop connections that are sent to it.

4. Making Adjustments to Power Settings for Remote Access

In order to guarantee that your computer is able to be accessed from a distant location:

Navigate to Settings, then to System, and then to Power & battery. From there, choose Screen and sleep.
Make sure that your computer does not enter sleep mode while it is connected to a power source.
Remote Desktop will not function if your own computer is either in a state of sleep or completely turned off.

5. Enabling the Remote Desktop Through the Windows Firewall

It is possible for connections to be blocked by firewall settings on occasion.

Go to the Windows Defender Firewall, which may be found by opening the Control Panel, then selecting “System and Security.” Grant permission for an application over the Windows Firewall.
Make certain that Remote Desktop is checked for both public and private networks.

6. Determining the Internet Protocol Address of the Host Computer

In the event that you are connected via the internet or a local network:

Open the Command Prompt and enter the following text:

The command “ipconfig” is used to display the current TCP/IP network configuration.
You should be able to find the IPv4 Address listed under your network adaptor.
This is the address that you will need in order to establish a connection from a different device.

7. Connecting to a Different Windows 11 PC

On the client computer, which is the computer that you are using to connect from:

To open Remote Desktop Connection, enter it into the search bar after pressing the Windows key and the S key at the same time.
Provide either the IP address or the name of the host machine.
Select the “Connect” button.
Input the username and password for the host computer.
You will be able to see the desktop of the host computer in a window on your client machine if the credentials you have entered are accurate.

8. Making Use of the Remote Desktop Application That Can Be Downloaded from the Microsoft Store

Microsoft also offers a contemporary Remote Desktop application:

You may get it from the Microsoft Store.
Start the application and then choose “+ Add > PCs.”
Enter the name of the computer, or enter the IP address, and then save.
For an immediate connection, just click on the connecting tile.
In comparison to the original client, this application features improved touch functionality and a more contemporary user interface.

9. Remote Desktop on Mobile Devices

You can use either an Android device or an iOS device to access your Windows 11 PC:

Visit Google Play or the App Store to download and install the Microsoft Remote Desktop application.
You may log in to the application using your Windows credentials once it has been opened and your PC’s name or IP address has been entered.
Now that you have access to your desktop computer straight from your smartphone or tablet, you will be able to use it anywhere, anytime.
This is especially beneficial for doing rapid inspections or making urgent adjustments while you are not in proximity to your laptop computer.

10. Establishing User Permissions

Remote Desktop connections are, by default, limited to users that have administrator privileges. To include other people:

To choose which users are allowed to remotely connect to this computer, go to the following path: Settings > System > Remote Desktop.
Click on the “Add” button, then enter the username of the account to which you want to provide access.

11. Ensuring the Security of Remote Desktop Connections

As Remote Desktop makes your machine vulnerable to connections from other sources, security is of the utmost importance:

For every account that you use, be sure that you have a strong password.
Within the Remote Desktop settings, make sure that the option for Network Level Authentication (NLA) is enabled.
If you are going to connect to the internet using public networks, you may want to think about utilizing a virtual private network (VPN).
Maintain up-to-date security updates on Windows to ensure the operating system is protected against emerging threats.

12. Issues That Frequently Arise and Their Solutions

The Connection Has Failed: Make sure that Remote Desktop is turned on and that the firewall rules permit access.

The IP address or PC name should be verified again since the PC could not be found.
Black Screen: Make sure the graphics drivers on the host PC are up to date.
Poor performance: Remote Desktop settings have a lower display quality.

13. Advantages of Using Remote Desktop

Complete access to applications and data on another personal computer

There is no need to carry around more than one laptop.
Beneficial for providing information technology help from a faraway location
Seamless interaction with the security and user accounts of the Windows operating system.

14. Other Options Besides Remote Desktop

If you are using Windows 11 Home or would like a more straightforward installation process:
TeamViewer is a user-friendly, commonly used program that is free for personal use.
AnyDesk is a lightweight and quick program.
Chrome Remote Desktop: Accessing this program via the Chrome web browser is simple and straightforward.

The Remote Desktop feature in Windows 11 is a powerful instrument that can be used to improve productivity and may potentially revolutionize the way you get work done. After it is turned on, you will have the ability to access your personal computer from any location, regardless of whether you are at home, at work, or traveling. It is possible to do your job in a secure and effective manner, without needing to physically be present at your workplace, if you follow the correct security procedures.

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