How to Use a Remote Desktop
Level of difficulty: Intermediate
Using a remote desktop is useful especially when you need to access some files and folders on another computer. A remote desktop uses a host computer that is your computer and a remote computer. The remote computer is the computer that you will use to access your desktop.
Materials Needed:- Internet connection
- host Computer
- Remote computer
Step 1
In order to access a remote desktop, your computer must allow a remote desktop connection.
Step 2
Log in to the host computer as the system’s administrator to configure the settings for a remote desktop connection. This may be done by clicking on 'Start' and choosing the 'Control Panel'. Select 'Performance and Maintenance' and click on the 'System' button. A new window should appear. On the new window, click the tab labeled 'Remote'.
Step 3
You should see a section for the Remote Desktop. Click on the box to place a check mark. Click 'Ok' and close the window.
Step 4
You should also make sure that a firewall is not blocking remote access to the desktop. To allow access, click on the 'Start' button and go to 'Control Panel'. Click on the 'Security Center' icon. A new window will appear. Choose 'Internet Options' under the 'Manage security settings for:' area.
Step 5
Uncheck the box next to 'Don’t allow exceptions' if it is checked. Click on the 'Exceptions' tab. Find 'Remote Desktop' from the list and check the option. Click on the 'Ok' button and exit the window.
Step 6
Remember the name of the host computer. If you do not know the name of the computer, go to the 'Control Panel' window and choose 'System' from the icons. A new window will appear. Click on the tab 'Computer Name'. The name of the host computer is the one located beside 'Full computer name'.
Step 7
To start using remote desktop, go to the remote computer. You can access the 'Remote Desktop Connection' by selecting the 'Start' button, choose 'All Programs', and select 'Accessories' from the drop-down menu. Choose 'Accessories and Communications' and click on 'Remote Desktop Connection'.
Step 8
Type in the name of the host computer and click 'Connect'. If you have a username and password for the host computer, type it inside the box and press the 'Enter' key.
Step 9
You should be able to access the desktop of the host computer from the remote computer that you are using.