Enable Remote Desktop on Windows Client OS (like Windows 10 and 11)

Enabling Remote Desktop on a Windows client operating system allows you to connect to your computer remotely. Here are the steps to configure Remote Desktop on a Windows client:

Note: The exact steps might vary slightly depending on the version of Windows you are using.

1. Open System Properties:

  • Right-click on the “This PC” or “Computer” icon on your desktop or in File Explorer.
  • Select “Properties.”

2. Access Remote Settings:

  • Click on “Advanced system settings” on the left.

3. Enable Remote Desktop:

  • Under the “Remote” tab, find the “Remote Desktop” section.
  • Check the box next to “Allow remote connections to this computer.”

4. Configure Network Level Authentication (Optional):

  • For added security, you can enable Network Level Authentication (NLA). This requires that the remote device authenticates before a session is established.
  • In the “Remote” tab, check the box next to “Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication.”

5. Note the Computer Name:

  • Under the “Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings,” make a note of your computer’s name. You will use this information when connecting remotely.

6. Configure Windows Firewall:

  • Ensure that the Windows Firewall allows Remote Desktop traffic.
  • Go to “Control Panel” > “System and Security” > “Windows Defender Firewall” > “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.”
  • Make sure “Remote Desktop” is checked.

7. Configure User Account:

  • Ensure that the user account you want to use for remote connections is a member of the “Remote Desktop Users” group.
  • You can do this by going to “Control Panel” > “Administrative Tools” > “Computer Management” > “Local Users and Groups” > “Groups” and adding your user to the “Remote Desktop Users” group.

8. Connect to the Computer Remotely:

  • On another computer, use the Remote Desktop client to connect to your Windows client machine.
  • Open the Remote Desktop client and enter the IP address or hostname of your computer.

9. Log In:

  • When prompted, enter the username and password of the account on your Windows client machine.

10. Verify Connection:

  • Once connected, you should see your Windows desktop on the remote computer.

Remember to follow security best practices, such as using strong passwords and keeping your system updated, when configuring and using Remote Desktop on Windows. Additionally, if your Windows version includes different settings or features, refer to the specific documentation for that version.