How to enable and use Remote Desktop (RDP) in Windows 10 and 11

Remotely accessing your computer from another device is an extremely useful tool in both professional and personal settings. The Remote Desktop (RDP) feature built into Windows allows you to connect to your PC from anywhere with internet access and perform all kinds of tasks as if you were actually there. From managing files to offer technical support or continue working outside the home or office, this functionality has become a essential solution for many users.

However, not all versions of Windows offer this option directly, and setting it up can be a bit confusing if you don't know the steps well. In this article, we'll explain how to do it. Everything you need to know about how to enable, configure, and use RDP in Windows 10 and Windows 11, including both professional editions and those that do not come natively, such as Windows Home. We will also review Safety tips, solutions to common problems and useful alternatives.

What is Remote Desktop and what is it for?

Remote Desktop is a built-in feature in Windows that allows you to control a computer remotely from another device, either from another Windows PC, a Mac, a mobile Android o iOS. It uses the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), which allows you to view and manage the remote computer's desktop as if you were sitting in front of it.

This tool is especially useful for:

• Access your personal or work computer from any other computer if you are away from home or traveling.
• Offer remote technical support, very useful if you want to help a family member or client without having to travel.
• Manage servers, run applications, and access remotely stored files.
• Save costs and improve efficiency, since you don't need powerful equipment locally, but only remote access to a computer that is.

Of course, by granting access to your system, you also open a door that, if not properly protected, can pose a security risk. Therefore, we'll show you how to properly secure your remote session later.

Windows versions and compatibility with RDP support

The first step before starting with the configuration is to make sure that Your computer has a version compatible with the Remote Desktop server, which is what allows others to connect to it.

By default, only Windows Pro, Enterprise, and Education versions of Windows 10 and 11 include support as an RDP server.. In other words, with them you can share your desktop with other devices. However, the Home editions They only allow you to use the function as a client, that is, you can connect to others, but not receive connections.

If you're using Windows Home, all is not lost: there are alternative methods and third-party tools that allow you to enable RDP on these versions as well, as you'll see later. To better understand how remote access works, you can check out more information about Microsoft's removal of Remote Desktop.

How to enable Remote Desktop in Windows 10 and 11 Pro

If you have a Pro version or higher of Windows, the steps to enable Remote Desktop are quite simple and can be done from the Settings menu:

1. Open the menu Home and click on Configuration (gear icon).
2. Access the section System and then search and select the option Remote Desktop in the side menu.
3. Flip the switch Enable remote desktop.
4. An informative notice will appear regarding the impact of this action. Click on RSVP.

Once activated, you will have access to a number of additional options:

• Keep your PC active to allow connection when idle.
• Make your computer visible on private networks, something necessary to connect without complications from nearby devices.
• Select allowed users: In addition to the administrator, you can add individual accounts with remote access enabled.

It is also recommended to enable the option of “Network-level authentication” (NLA), which adds a additional layer of protection by requiring users to authenticate before establishing a session. For more details on firewall configuration, see how to get RDP working through the firewall.

How to enable Remote Desktop from the Control Panel

Another way to activate RDP, also valid in Windows 10 and 11, is to do it using the classic Control panel:

1. Type “Control Panel” in the search bar and open it.
2. Go to Security system → System.
3. Click on Advanced System Settings (on the left side).
4. Go to the tab Remote access.
5. Check the option Allow remote connections to this team.
6. Confirm and apply the changes.

This method offers the same features as Settings, but with a more classic and focused design. If you prefer to explore more about Remote Desktop connections and their performance, you may be interested in learning more about Remote Desktop connections. How many Remote Desktop connections does Windows 10 allow?

How to connect to a remote PC from another device

Once Remote Desktop is enabled, you can log in to that computer from any other compatible device. Depending on what you're using, these are the usual paths:

From another Windows computer:

• Type “Remote Desktop Connection” in the Start menu search bar.
• Open the corresponding app.
• Enter the computer name or IP address.
• Balance Connect and enter your credentials.

From Android or iOS:

• Download the App Microsoft Remote Desktop from Google Play or the App Store.
• Add a new connection by entering the IP or PC name.
• Enter username and password.
• Wait for it to connect and that's it!

Nota: If you are outside the local network, you will need to configure the Forwarding of ports trust your router or use a VPN. By default, RDP uses port 3389If you are interested in learning more about what network ports are and how they work, check out the article about network ports and their types.

What if I have Windows Home? Alternative methods to enable RDP

As we mentioned before, Windows 10/11 Home doesn't allow you to configure your computer as an RDP server natively. But you can use alternative solutions to achieve the same result:

Option 1: Thinstuff Remote Desktop Host

One of the most popular ways to activate RDP in Home editions. Installation is simple:

1. Download and install Thinstuff Remote Desktop Host from its official website.
2. Restart your computer after the installation is complete.
3. Run the app.
4. Set the Group Policy Editor to enable proper encryption (optional if you are having trouble with Oracle Encryption).

This method enables the RDP server and is fully functional, although it will display a license warning if you don't purchase the full version. The message disappears after a few seconds. Another valid option is to use tools such as VNC which also allows remote access.

Option 2: Third-party tools like AnyViewer, Chrome Remote Desktop, or TeamViewer

These are complete solutions that don't rely on Windows Home limitations. For example:

• AnyViewer allows you to control a PC without extra configuration and with good security options.
• Chrome Remote Desktop works via browser with your Google account.
• TeamViewer It is ideal for punctual and synchronous support.

These options are legal, secure, and offer many features beyond simple remote access. If you encounter problems using RDP, it's a good idea to read about it. common problems that RDP can present.

Best practices for secure remote access

Security is key when enabling external connections to your device. Follow these recommendations to protect yourself:

• Usa strong passwords with uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers and Symbols.
• Activate the Network Level Authentication (NLA).
• Limit users with remote access to only those strictly necessary.
• setup specific firewall rules to limit access to certain IPs.
• Change the default port (3389) by another less known one from the Windows registry (requires advanced knowledge).
• If possible, use a VPN to establish the remote connection.
• Keep the system updated with the latest security patches.

Nota: Remember that the use of remote access technologies always involves a risk, so it is preferable to stay informed and follow the news about the differences between versions of Windows in constant security updates.

Troubleshooting common RDP issues

Even if you follow all the steps, you may encounter some issues when trying to connect. Here are some common causes:

• The Remote Desktop feature is not activated on the destination computer.
• Network problems or internet outage on any of the devices.
• Error in credentials entered (username/password).
• The firewall blocks the connection: Check that Remote Desktop access is allowed.
• The remote computer is idle or turned off, so it doesn't respond.

In many cases, simply restart your computer or router resolve the incident. It's also a good idea to test locally before launching into external connections.

The ability to connect to your PC from anywhere not only improves productivity, it also reduces the need to be physically present at your workspace. Thanks to all the options offered by Windows, both in its Pro versions and through external tools in Home, anyone can easily set up an efficient, stable, and secure remote access environment.