Remote Desktop in Windows: How to Set It Up

With Remote Desktop in Windows, you can connect to your PC from another device and work as if you were sitting in front of it. This is perfect for working from home, IT support, or accessing programs installed on your office PC. Here we show you how to set up Remote Desktop step by step.

Remote Desktop Windows 11

Important to know before you start

  • The PC you connect TO must have Windows 11 Pro
  • The PC you connect FROM can be any version
  • Both must be connected to the internet

1. Enable Remote Desktop

  1. Open Settings
  2. Go to System
  3. Select Remote Desktop
  4. Turn on Remote Desktop

Note the PC name. You will need this when you connect later.

2. Grant user access

  1. Click Select users who can access remotely
  2. Add the user account that should have access

3. Find the PC name or IP address

This is used to connect to the machine from another device.

4. Connect from another PC

  1. Open Remote Desktop Connection
  2. Enter the PC name
  3. Click Connect
  4. Log in with username and password

Now your desktop will appear, and you can use the PC as usual.

Windows 11 Pro features

Remote Desktop over the internet

If you are going to connect to the PC outside your home network, you need:

  • Port forwarding in the router
  • Public IP or VPN

For businesses, a VPN is the most secure solution.

Common problems

Remote Desktop is not available

This feature is only available in Windows 11 Pro.

Cannot connect

  • Check that the PC is turned on
  • Check the internet connection
  • Check that the correct PC name is used

Do you need Windows 11 Pro?

To use your PC as a host for Remote Desktop, you need the Pro version.

Windows 11 Pro product key

Working remotely with Windows

Conclusion

Remote Desktop makes it easy to work from anywhere with full access to your PC. With Windows 11 Pro, you can set it up in a few minutes and have a flexible and efficient workday.

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