How to Create a Remote Desktop Connection in Windows 10: Complete Guide

Create a Remote Desktop Connection in Windows 10

Remote work, IT management, and cross-device access have become essential in today’s digital world. Microsoft Windows 10 offers a built-in feature called Remote Desktop Connection (RDC), which allows users to connect to another computer remotely. Whether you’re an IT professional managing servers or a home user who needs to access a work computer, creating a Remote Desktop Connection in Windows 10 is a straightforward yet powerful way to stay productive.

This article will walk you through everything you need to know about creating and configuring a Remote Desktop Connection in Windows 10 — from enabling the feature, preparing the host computer, connecting from another device, and troubleshooting common problems.

What is Remote Desktop Connection?

Remote Desktop Connection (RDC) is a Microsoft tool that uses Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) to let you access another computer’s desktop environment. Once connected, you can see the remote desktop, launch programs, transfer files, and perform tasks as if you were physically present.

  • Host computer: The PC you want to connect to (running Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education).

  • Client computer: The device you use to connect (can be Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android).

⚠️ Important: Windows 10 Home edition cannot be used as a host, though it can be used as a client to connect to other computers.

Benefits of Using Remote Desktop

  1. Remote Work – Access your office PC from home or while traveling.

  2. Centralized IT Management – Administrators can monitor and fix systems without being on-site.

  3. Flexibility – Retrieve files, run software, or print documents from anywhere.

  4. Cost-Efficient – No need for third-party software in most cases.

  5. Cross-Platform Access – Use the Microsoft Remote Desktop app for mobile devices.

Step 1: Check Requirements

Before creating a Remote Desktop Connection, make sure you have:

  • A PC running Windows 10 Pro/Enterprise/Education (host).

  • A stable internet or LAN connection.

  • The PC name or IP address of the host computer.

  • Administrator rights on the host machine.

Step 2: Enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.

  2. Navigate to System → Remote Desktop.

  3. Toggle the option Enable Remote Desktop to On.

  4. Confirm when prompted.

  5. Note down the PC name under “How to connect to this PC.”

Alternatively:

  • Open Control Panel → System and Security → System.

  • Click Remote Settings.

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

Step 3: Adjust Firewall Settings

Usually, enabling Remote Desktop automatically updates the Windows Firewall. If not:

  1. Open Control Panel → Windows Defender Firewall → Allow an app through Windows Firewall.

  2. Ensure Remote Desktop is checked for Private and Public networks.

Step 4: Find the Host PC’s IP Address

You’ll need the host’s IP for remote access (especially outside LAN).

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

  2. Type ipconfig and hit Enter.

  3. Look for IPv4 Address (example: 192.168.1.25).

👉 If you’re connecting from outside your network, also check your public IP by searching “What is my IP” in a browser.

Step 5: Connect from Another Windows 10 Computer

  1. On the client PC, press Windows + R, type mstsc, and hit Enter.

  2. In the RDC window, type the host PC name or IP address.

  3. Click Connect.

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

  5. The remote desktop will appear on your client screen.

Step 6: Save the Remote Desktop Connection as a Shortcut

If you connect frequently:

  1. In the RDC window, click Show Options.

  2. Enter PC name, username, and configure display/resources.

  3. Click Save As… to create a .rdp shortcut file.

  4. Double-click the shortcut anytime for instant connection.

Step 7: Connect Using Mobile or Tablet

  1. Install the Microsoft Remote Desktop app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).

  2. Open the app → Add PC.

  3. Enter the PC name or public IP.

  4. Enter your login credentials.

  5. Tap the PC name to start the session.

Security Best Practices

Since Remote Desktop is often a target for hackers, take these precautions:

  1. Use Strong Passwords – Avoid weak or reused passwords.

  2. Enable Network Level Authentication (NLA) – Ensures identity verification before full connection.

  3. Change the Default RDP Port (3389) – Use a non-standard port to reduce exposure.

  4. Limit Users – Allow access only to trusted accounts.

  5. Use VPN – Connect through a VPN for safer access over the internet.

  6. Keep Windows Updated – Always install security updates.

Common Issues and Fixes

  1. Remote Desktop can’t connect to the remote computer

    • Check firewall and network settings.

    • Confirm host PC is powered on and connected.

  2. Black screen or slow performance

    • Lower display resolution in RDC settings.

    • Close heavy apps on the host PC.

  3. Incorrect credentials

    • Use format PCName\Username if credentials fail.

  4. Dynamic public IP changes

    • Use a Dynamic DNS (DDNS) service like No-IP or DynDNS.

Alternatives to Remote Desktop

If RDC feels too complex, alternatives include:

  • TeamViewer – Easy setup, cross-platform, but requires a license for commercial use.

  • AnyDesk – Lightweight and fast.

  • Chrome Remote Desktop – Free and simple via a Chrome extension.

Conclusion

Creating a Remote Desktop Connection in Windows 10 is one of the most effective ways to stay connected to your computer, no matter where you are. By enabling Remote Desktop, configuring firewall and network settings, and following security best practices, you can enjoy seamless access to files, software, and resources from virtually any device.

For IT professionals, it’s an essential management tool; for everyday users, it’s a convenient way to access a home or work PC remotely. With just a few steps, your Windows 10 machine transforms into a workstation that’s always within reach.

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