Configuring Windows Remote Desktop (RDP)

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) allows IT staff and users to access Windows computers remotely. To enable it: right-click This PC > Properties > Remote settings > check 'Allow remote connections to this computer'. Only Windows 10/11 Pro and Enterprise support incoming RDP — Home editions cannot be remote desktop hosts. Ensure the user account being used is in the Remote Desktop Users group, or is an administrator. The Windows Firewall rule for Remote Desktop is automatically enabled when RDP is turned on. Connect from another PC using Remote Desktop Connection (mstsc.exe) — enter the hostname or IP address. For external (internet) remote access, avoid exposing RDP directly on port 3389 — this is a major attack vector. Instead, use a VPN to the network first, then RDP internally. Alternatively, use Windows Admin Center or a commercial remote access tool (e.g., ConnectWise Control, TeamViewer for business).