Setting Up a Remote Desktop on Windows 10 Over the Internet

In today’s digital landscape, remote access to a computer is not just a convenience—it’s a necessity. Whether you're working from home, providing IT support, or simply need to access files while traveling, setting up a remote desktop on Windows 10 over the internet can be a game-changer. This guide will walk you through the complete process of setting up, securing, and using Windows 10’s built-in Remote Desktop feature over the internet.

What Is Remote Desktop?

Remote Desktop is a feature in Windows 10 that allows you to connect to and control your PC from another device. This means you can access your desktop, files, applications, and network resources as if you were sitting right in front of your computer—even if you’re miles away.

By default, Remote Desktop works over a local network. To use it over the internet, you’ll need to take some additional steps to ensure both functionality and security.

Requirements for Remote Desktop

Before you start setting up Remote Desktop over the internet, make sure you have the following:

• Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education: The Remote Desktop server feature is not available in Windows 10 Home.

• A stable internet connection on both the host (the computer you want to connect to) and the client device.

• Administrator access on the host PC.

• Router access to set up port forwarding (if not using VPN).

• Optional but recommended: Static IP address or Dynamic DNS (DDNS) for the host PC.

Step 1: Enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

2. Navigate to System > Remote Desktop.

3. Toggle the switch “Enable Remote Desktop” to On.

4. Confirm the prompt by clicking Confirm.

5. Note the PC name listed under "How to connect to this PC." You’ll use this later.

For additional security, click on Advanced settings and ensure Network Level Authentication (NLA) is enabled.

Step 2: Set Up a Static IP or Dynamic DNS

If your internet service provider changes your IP address frequently (as many do), you have two options:

Option A: Use a Static IP Address

Ask your ISP to provide a static IP. This ensures your public IP remains the same, which is crucial for remote connections.

Option B: Use Dynamic DNS (DDNS)

If a static IP isn’t feasible:

1. Sign up for a free DDNS service (e.g., No-IP, DynDNS).

2. Create a hostname (e.g., myremotepc.ddns.net).

3. Set up DDNS on your router or install the DDNS updater client on the host PC.

This maps your dynamic IP address to a consistent domain name.

Step 3: Configure Port Forwarding on Your Router

To access Remote Desktop over the internet, you need to allow incoming connections to the host PC through your router.

1. Log in to your router’s web interface (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).

2. Locate the Port Forwarding section.

3. Create a new rule:

   • Service name: Remote Desktop

   • Port range: 3389 (default RDP port)

   • Protocol: TCP

   • Internal IP address: The local IP of your host PC (e.g., 192.168.1.100)

4. Save the settings and reboot the router if required.

Important Note: Port 3389 is commonly scanned by malicious bots. If you must expose it, consider changing it to a non-standard port or use a VPN for additional security (covered below).

Step 4: (Optional but Recommended) Use a VPN for Security

Directly exposing Remote Desktop to the internet is risky. A safer alternative is to set up a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Benefits of Using a VPN:

• Encrypts your internet traffic.

• Hides the RDP port from public exposure.

• Provides secure access to your home network.

You can either:

• Use your router’s built-in VPN server (if available).

• Set up Windows’ built-in Incoming VPN on the host PC.

• Use third-party VPN solutions like OpenVPN or WireGuard.

Once connected to the VPN, you can use the local IP address of the host PC to connect securely.

Step 5: Connect Remotely Using Remote Desktop

Now that everything is set up, it’s time to test your connection.

From a Windows PC:

1. Press Windows + R, type mstsc, and press Enter.

2. In the Remote Desktop Connection window, enter:

   • The public IP address or DDNS hostname of the host PC.

   • Add the port number if you changed it (e.g., myremotepc.ddns.net:3390).

3. Click Connect.

4. Enter the username and password of the host PC.

From a Mobile Device:

• Download the Microsoft Remote Desktop app from the App Store or Google Play.

• Add a new PC using the IP address or DDNS hostname.

• Enter your credentials and connect.

Troubleshooting Remote Desktop Over the Internet

If you encounter issues, consider the following:

• Firewall settings: Ensure the host PC allows RDP traffic.

• Correct port: Double-check that port forwarding is configured correctly.

• Account permissions: The account you're using must have a password and be part of the "Remote Desktop Users" group.

• ISP restrictions: Some ISPs block incoming ports—contact your provider if issues persist.

Security Tips for Remote Desktop

• Change the default RDP port (3389) to a less predictable one.

• Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) where possible.

• Enable account lockout policies to prevent brute-force attacks.

• Audit your RDP logs to detect suspicious login attempts.

• Disable RDP when not in use, or restrict it to specific IPs.

Final Thoughts

Setting up Remote Desktop on Windows 10 over the internet can greatly enhance your productivity and flexibility, but it comes with security considerations. By taking the right precautions—such as using VPNs, DDNS, strong passwords, and proper firewall settings—you can establish a safe and reliable remote connection to your Windows 10 PC from anywhere in the world.

Whether you're supporting a team, working remotely, or accessing personal files while away, Remote Desktop remains one of the most powerful tools in the Windows ecosystem. With careful setup, you can harness its full potential—securely and efficiently.