Remote Desktop lets you connect to another computer from any location.
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Remote Desktop is an application developed by Microsoft that lets users connect remotely to another computer. The tool allows full user control, which is typically useful for troubleshooting and general usage purposes. As of 2009, Remote Desktop 7 was released for Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows 7. Before a connection is established, Remote Desktop must be enabled from the computer to which users wish to connect.
Step 1
Go to the "Start" menu and click the "Control Panel." Select the "System and Security" link.
Step 2
Click "Allow Remote Access" from the "Security" section to launch the System Properties settings. Alternatively, right-click the "Computer" icon, then click "Properties." Select "Remote Settings" to arrive at the same destination.
Step 3
Enable the option "Allow Remote Assistance Connections to this Computer."
Step 4
Select which connection type you wish to allow. Enable the option "Allow Connections from Computers Running Any Version of Remote Desktop." This option is appropriate if users plan to connect to your computer using any version of Microsoft Windows and the Remote Desktop application.
Step 5
Enable the option "Allow Connections Only from Computers Running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication." As a more secure option, this prompts users to enter their credentials before a Remote Desktop session initializes. Network Level Authentication is supported in both Windows Vista and Windows 7.
Step 6
Click "OK" to apply all settings.
Warning
- If an incoming connection is blocked, consult your router settings and forward Remote Desktop's default access port, 3389.
Photo Credits
- Jupiterimages/Creatas/Getty Images
