Remote desktop works by enabling users to connect to a particular computer and then control or use it over the internet as if they’re in front of the computer. So it’s more or less remote-controlled software.
A good instance to use is a technical support call scenario. After you inform the technician of the issue you’re facing on your computer, he uses your mouse cursor to fix the problem, that’s a remote desktop connection at work. It enables you to operate a computer from a remote location.
This article will discuss how the remote desktop software works and what it is.
What Is Remote Desktop?
Knowing this is key to answering the question: “how does remote desktop work?”. A remote desktop is a client application that enables the client computer to connect to the host computer from a remote location.
After this, a remote desktop connection was established. Then the hidden user can use or control the applications or files on the host computer regardless of the user’s location.
It’s an in-built feature on Windows operating systems.
How Does Remote Desktop Work- The Steps
You can use the remote desktop server to connect your home computer with your office computer to access files, edit and print documents, and open applications without going to the office. This is another instance of remote desktop connection or remote access.
The host computer doesn’t have to be a personal computer for establishing remote connections. Many RDP hosting companies make this process very easy. Instead, it’s usually a server or even a virtual server environment in many instances, especially for office use.
The host device powered the software and operating system and then displayed on the host device with a remote desktop.
The remote desktop software inputs from the keyboard and the mouse and then transmits these data to the host device.
When it comes to files or tasks that involve high usage of a graphical interface, additional software may be necessary to ensure that the performance of the remote desktop is responsive, smooth, and quick.
The basic steps for connecting to a computer via the remote desktop protocol (RDP):
Step 1
Switch on your computer and ensure that it stays on. Review your computer’s “sleep” settings and adjust them if you have to so that your device will stay on.
Step 2
Access the settings menu.
Step 3
In “settings,” go to the system.
Step 4
Under “system,” you’ll see “Remote desktop” click it to enable remote desktop.
Step 5
Under “How to connect to this PC,” take note of the computer’s name because you will need that information later.
Ensure that the system you want to connect to is a Windows 10 pro system.
To be sure:
- Go to “Start” and access settings from there.
- Click “system” and then click “About” to look up the edition of your system. If it isn’t Windows 10 Pro, you will need to upgrade it.
The steps to use the RDP server software to access the system you set up:
For Windows 10 System
Step 1
Using your host system, go to the search box of the taskbar.
Step 2
Type and select remote desktop connection.
Step 3
Once selected, input the name of the PC you want to connect to (from the first set of steps), click “connect.”
For Android, iOS, or Windows Device
Step 1
Install and open the remote desktop app (which you can get for free from Play Store, Mac App Store, or Microsoft Store).
Step 2
Add the name of the PC you want to connect to.
Step 3
Then select the name of the system you just added and wait for it to connect.
Advantages of Remote Desktop for Organizations
- RDP servers or virtual desktops make it easier for IT teams to carry out patches, diagnostics, updates, and fix systems in the users’ home office.
- A remote desktop server enables users to do work from anywhere. It doesn’t matter if they’re at home, in the office, or on the road. Virtual desktops don’t require a network connection to function. Rdp works without extra hardware to link users to the server.
- What you require is simply internet access and a browser. This benefit favors companies that wish to spend less on hardware and lighten the overhead costs from the IT teams. With a hosted computer, the remote desktop server company takes care of the software and security matters, and it’s part of the subscription fee.
- This is the ideal system for organizations with tons of remote workers. All the workers with access to the server can work using the identical application versions. This smoothens the exchange of data.
- It’s also the ideal system for organizations with employees that travel often. It’s much easier for those employees to log in from any location in the world to access company files, update documents, and submit completed reports.
Aside from other kinds of remote access technology, the RDP server is a very instrumental work tool for the future of remote working and the post-COVID era.
This video will show us what working from home could look like after Covid:
In conclusion, a remote desktop is a priceless tool for companies in this digital era. It enhances employees’ productivity, is cost-effective, and gives users a similar desktop experience to what they’re used to. This includes apps that they’re already conversant with.
The Security Aspect of Remote Desktop
Using a remote desktop to link your home PC to your work PC, network or server will trigger security concerns that one must not overlook.
Microsoft makes provision for some quality security features:
- Limiting the number of users
- Creating account lockouts
- Requiring authentication of the password
- Enabling encryption
- Whitelisting certain IP addresses
To set up a firewall, you might need first to set up a virtual private network (VPN) or virtual desktop integration. However, there is a downside; virtual private networks are more prone to cyberattacks than before.