How to Set Up Your PC to Allow Remote Desktop Connection? Step-by-Step Guide


Remote Desktop is a powerful feature built into Windows that enables you to access and control your computer from another device, no matter where you are. Whether you want to manage files on your home PC while traveling, provide technical support to a friend, or run programs from your office computer at home, Remote Desktop makes it possible. However, before you can connect remotely, you must properly configure your PC to allow Remote Desktop connections.

In this guide, we will walk through the step-by-step process of setting up your PC for Remote Desktop, including enabling the feature, adjusting firewall settings, setting up user permissions, and configuring your network for remote access.

What Is Remote Desktop?

Remote Desktop is a Microsoft Windows tool that lets you log in and interact with another computer over the internet or local network. When connected, you see the remote machine’s desktop as if you were sitting right in front of it. With Remote Desktop, you can:

  • Open files, applications, and programs remotely.

  • Perform administrative tasks on a server or computer.

  • Access your work computer from home (and vice versa).

  • Troubleshoot and assist others without being physically present.

It is especially popular among IT professionals, remote workers, and anyone needing flexibility in accessing their PCs from anywhere.

Requirements for Remote Desktop Connection

Before setting up your PC, you need to ensure the following:

  1. Windows Version – Remote Desktop is available in Windows Professional, Enterprise, and Education editions. Windows 10/11 Home editions do not allow incoming Remote Desktop connections (though they can connect to another machine).

  2. Internet or Local Network Access – If you’re connecting over the internet, your router must be properly configured. For local network use, ensure all devices are connected to the same network.

  3. User Account Credentials – You must have the username and password for the account you plan to log in to remotely.

  4. Firewall and Security – Windows Firewall and antivirus programs may need to be adjusted to permit Remote Desktop.

Step 1: Enable Remote Desktop on Your PC

To allow your computer to accept remote connections:

  1. Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to System > Remote Desktop.

  3. Toggle the switch Enable Remote Desktop to On.

  4. Confirm your choice when prompted.

Alternatively, you can enable it through the Control Panel:

  1. Press Windows Key + R, type sysdm.cpl, and hit Enter.

  2. In the System Properties window, go to the Remote tab.

  3. Under Remote Desktop, select Allow remote connections to this computer.

  4. (Optional but recommended) Check Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication (NLA) for better security.

  5. Click Apply, then OK.

This step officially enables your PC to accept remote connections.

Step 2: Select Which Users Can Access Your PC

By default, only administrators can connect remotely. If you want other users to access your computer:

  1. Open Settings > System > Remote Desktop.

  2. Click Select users that can remotely access this PC.

  3. In the Remote Desktop Users window, click Add.

  4. Enter the username of the person you want to grant access to.

  5. Click OK to confirm.

Now, those users can log in with their credentials when connecting remotely.

Step 3: Configure Windows Firewall

When enabling Remote Desktop, Windows Firewall usually updates automatically to allow connections. However, you should verify:

  1. Press Windows Key + R, type control, and hit Enter.

  2. Go to System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall > Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.

  3. Scroll down to Remote Desktop.

  4. Ensure both Private and Public boxes are checked.

  5. Click OK to save changes.

This ensures Remote Desktop traffic is not blocked by the firewall.

Step 4: Find Your PC’s IP Address or Computer Name

To connect remotely, you need your PC’s network address.

  • For Local Network:

    1. Press Windows Key + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.

    2. Type ipconfig and press Enter.

    3. Look for IPv4 Address (e.g., 192.168.1.100).

  • For Internet Access:
    You need your public IP address. Visit a site like whatismyip.com to find it.

Alternatively, you can connect using the computer name:

  1. Press Windows Key + R, type sysdm.cpl, and press Enter.

  2. Go to the Computer Name tab.

  3. Copy the Full Computer Name.

Step 5: Configure Router for Remote Access (Port Forwarding)

If you want to access your PC from outside your home network, you need to configure port forwarding:

  1. Log in to your router’s admin panel (usually by typing 192.168.1.1 in a browser).

  2. Go to the Port Forwarding or Virtual Server section.

  3. Add a new rule to forward TCP port 3389 to your computer’s local IP address.

  4. Save changes and restart your router if necessary.

Now, your PC can accept Remote Desktop connections from anywhere over the internet.

Step 6: Secure Your Remote Desktop Connection

Since Remote Desktop exposes your computer to external access, you must secure it:

  • Use Strong Passwords: Ensure your account password is complex and difficult to guess.

  • Enable Network Level Authentication (NLA): Adds a layer of authentication before connecting.

  • Change the Default Port (Optional): Instead of using port 3389, change it to a custom port for added security.

  • Use a VPN: If possible, set up a VPN connection to your network for safer access.

  • Keep Windows Updated: Always install the latest security patches.

Step 7: Connect to Your PC Remotely

Once everything is configured, you can connect from another Windows computer:

  1. Press Windows Key + R, type mstsc, and hit Enter.

  2. In the Remote Desktop Connection window, enter your computer’s IP address or name.

  3. Click Connect.

  4. Enter your username and password.

  5. Once authenticated, you’ll see your PC’s desktop and can use it normally.

You can also connect from:

  • Android or iOS Devices: Install the Microsoft Remote Desktop app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

  • Mac Computers: Download the Microsoft Remote Desktop app from the Mac App Store.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you face issues:

  • Check Firewall Settings – Ensure Remote Desktop is allowed.

  • Verify User Permissions – Confirm the user has access rights.

  • Check Internet Connection – Ensure both devices are online.

  • Test with Local Connection First – Make sure it works on the local network before trying remotely.

  • Restart the Remote Desktop Service – Run services.msc, find Remote Desktop Services, and restart it.

Conclusion

Setting up your PC to allow Remote Desktop connections unlocks a new level of flexibility and convenience. Whether you’re working remotely, providing IT support, or simply accessing files from another location, this feature ensures that your computer is always within reach. By following the steps above—enabling Remote Desktop, adjusting firewall settings, configuring users, setting up port forwarding, and securing the connection—you can enjoy seamless and secure remote access.

Remote Desktop is more than just a tool; it’s a gateway to productivity, collaboration, and efficiency in our increasingly connected world.

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