Windows Remote Desktop Connection (RDC) allows you to control a computer remotely within the same local network (like an office or home network). This is an essential tool for IT professionals and for quick access to files or applications on another PC.
Prerequisites:
- The host PC (the one you want to connect to) must be running a Windows Pro or Enterprise edition (Windows Home editions cannot be hosts).
- Both the host PC and the client PC (the one you are connecting from) must be powered on and connected to the same network.
- You must know the PC name or IP address of the host PC.
- You must have a user account on the host PC with a strong password.
Part 1: Configure the Host PC (The computer you want to access)
1. Enable Remote Desktop
- Go to Settings (press Win + I).
- Navigate to System > Remote Desktop.
- Toggle the Enable Remote Desktop switch to On and select Confirm if prompted.
- Note the PC name listed here, as you will need it for the connection.
2. Verify Firewall Settings (Typically automatic, but good to check)
- Search for and open Windows Defender Firewall or Windows Firewall with Advanced Security.
- Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
- Click Change settings.
- Ensure Remote Desktop is checked for the Private profile (and possibly Public, depending on your network settings, but Private is standard for an office/home network). Click OK.
3. Allow Specific Users (Optional)
- In the Remote Desktop settings, you can click Select users that can remotely access this PC.
- By default, members of the Administrators group can connect. If you need to add a standard user account, click Add, type the username, and click OK.
Part 2: Connect from the Client PC (The computer you are connecting from)
1. Open Remote Desktop Connection
- On the client PC, click the Start button or press Win + R.
- Search for Remote Desktop Connection and open the app.
2. Enter Connection Details
- In the Remote Desktop Connection window, enter the PC name or IP address of the host PC that you noted in Part 1, Step 1.
- Click Connect.
3. Provide Credentials
- A login prompt will appear. Enter the username and password of an allowed user account on the host PC.
- Click OK.
4. Confirm Certificate (If prompted)
- You may receive a warning that the identity of the remote computer cannot be verified. This is normal on a private network. Check the box Don't ask me again for connections to this computer and click Yes to establish the connection.
You should now see the desktop of the remote PC, allowing you to control it as if you were sitting right in front of it!
