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Remote Desktop is a feature available on any version of Microsoft Windows, though you need to download and install the software for versions published before Windows XP. Remote Desktop allows you to access your computer over the Internet from a different location. For example, you can log in to your computer at work while at home and easily access your files, programs and other resources. For Remote Desktop to work, the host computer must be running Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7.
Prepare Your Host Computer
Step 1
Open the "Start" menu and then click "Control Panel."
Step 2
Double-click "Performance and Maintenance" at the bottom-left corner of the Control Panel window.
Step 3
Double-click "System" at the bottom of the Performance and Maintenance window.
Step 4
Open the "Remote" tab and click the check box next to "Allow Users to Connect Remotely to This Computer."
Step 5
Click the "OK" button to save your changes and exit the dialog box. Your computer is now ready to act as a host computer.
Prepare Your Remote Computer
Step 1
On the remote computer, click "Start," "All Programs," "Accessories."
Step 2
In the "Accessories" menu, click on "Communications" and then "Remote Desktop Connection."
Step 3
Type in the name of the host computer and click "Connect."
Step 4
Enter the username and password for your host computer and click "OK." This will launch the remote desktop window, which will show you the actual desktop of the host computer.
Tip
- If Remote Desktop did not run properly on your host computer, you should check two things. First, your corporate network may block the remote access connection. Check with your employer or system administrator to determine if this is the case. Second, check the firewall settings on your host computer to ensure that the firewall is not blocking the remote access connection.
Warning
- If you are using Remote Desktop to connect to your work computer, you should review your employer's polices concerning use of the computer network before using a remote access connection. Many employers discourage or even forbid this type of access for security reasons.
Photo Credits
- Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
