How to Use a Remote Desktop in XP

The Windows XP operating system includes a feature called Remote Desktop, which allows users to connect to other PCs over the Internet. Before you can use the Remote Desktop feature, it must be enabled on your computer by an administrator. Be aware that certain system firewalls may block Remote Desktop connections and prevent you from connecting to some PC computers.

Enable Remote Desktop

Step 1

Log on to your PC with an account that has administrative privileges.

Step 2

Open the Start menu, right-click the "My Computer" icon and select "Properties."

Step 3

Go to the "Remote" tab at the top of the Properties window.

Step 4

Check the box next to "Allow users to connect remotely to this computer."

Step 5

Press the "OK" button to save the settings and enable Remote Desktop.

Using Remote Desktop

Step 1

Open the Start menu and expand the "All Programs" list.

Step 2

Open the "Accessories" and "Communications" subfolders and then click "Remote Desktop Connection."

Step 3

Enter the hostname or IP address of the PC you want to access in the "Computer" field.

Step 4

Click the "Connect" button to begin communicating with the remote PC.

Step 5

Log in to the remote computer with a valid username and password. The desktop of the remote computer will now appear in a virtual environment.

References

• Windows XP Support: Get Started Using Remote Desktop with Windows XP Professional

About the Author

Bennett Gavrish is an I.T. professional who has been writing about computers, electronics and the Web since 2004. His work has appeared in the "Nashua Telegraph" and the "Daily Free Press" and on numerous websites. Gavrish received a bachelor's degree in journalism from Boston University.

Photo Credits

• portable pc image by Albo from Fotolia.com