How to Remote Desktop into a Windows VPS
Every Preinstalled Windows VPS at QuickServers comes with Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) already activated, so you can easily connect to your remote desktop from anywhere. However, depending on your VPS configuration, you may need to adjust the firewall settings in the VPS to allow RDP connections. It's worth noting that the standard pre-installed remote desktop app that comes with Windows may not always work properly or provide the same level of functionality as third-party remote desktop apps. In some cases, it may be unable to establish a secure connection to the remote desktop or may not support certain features or settings that are necessary for your specific use case. That's why it's often recommended to use a third-party remote desktop app like Microsoft Remote Desktop to ensure a reliable and secure connection to your remote Windows desktop. With Microsoft Remote Desktop, you can easily configure your connection settings and take advantage of advanced features like multiple monitors, remote audio, and clipboard sharing. Additionally, Microsoft Remote Desktop is regularly updated with new features and security enhancements to ensure that you can always access your remote desktop safely and securely.
Here's how to access a Windows remote desktop on a VPS using the Microsoft Remote Desktop app:
Step 1: Download and install the Microsoft Remote Desktop app from the link you provided: https://apps.microsoft.com/store/detail/microsoft-remote-desktop/9WZDNCRFJ3PS?hl=en-us&gl=us&rtc=1
Step 2: Once the app is installed, launch it by clicking on the app icon.
Step 3: Click on the "+" icon in the top-right corner to create a new remote desktop connection.
Step 4: In the "PC name" field, enter the name or IP address of the remote Windows desktop you want to connect to.
Step 5: Choose the appropriate settings for your connection, such as display resolution and color depth, under the "Display" tab.
Step 6: Enter your username and password for the remote Windows desktop in the "User account" section under the "General" tab.
Step 7: If necessary, configure any additional settings for your connection under the other tabs, such as local resources and gateway settings.
Step 8: Once you've configured your connection settings, click the "Save" button to save your connection.
Step 9: To connect to your remote Windows desktop, simply click on the name of your saved connection in the Microsoft Remote Desktop app and click the "Connect" button.
Step 10: If prompted, enter your username and password again to authenticate your remote desktop session.
You should now be connected to your remote Windows desktop and can use it just as you would if you were sitting in front of it.
If you are unable to connect to your server via our VNC viewer and adjust the firewall settings below.
Step 1: Log in to your Windows Server 2022 instance using an account with administrative privileges.
Step 2: Click on the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner of the screen and type "Windows Security" in the search bar. Click on "Windows Security" from the search results.
Step 3: In the Windows Security window, click on "Firewall & network protection."
Step 4: Click on "Allow an app through firewall" under "Windows Defender Firewall.
Step 5: Click on the "Change settings" button to enable changes to the firewall settings.
Step 6: Scroll down to "Remote Desktop" in the list of apps and features and check the box next to it to allow RDP traffic through the firewall.
Step 7: If you want to limit RDP traffic to specific networks, click on the "Advanced settings" button at the bottom of the window.
Step 8: In the Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security window, click on "Inbound Rules" in the left-hand pane.
Step 9: Scroll down to "Remote Desktop - User Mode (TCP-In)" in the list of rules and right-click on it. Select "Properties" from the context menu.
Step 10: In the Remote Desktop - User Mode (TCP-In) Properties window, click on the "Scope" tab.
Step 11: Under "Remote IP address," select "These IP addresses" and click on the "Add" button.
Step 12: Enter the IP address or range of IP addresses that you want to allow RDP traffic from and click "OK."
Step 13: Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes.
With these firewall settings adjusted, RDP traffic should be able to pass through the firewall and connect to the Windows Server 2022 instance.
Adjusting your firewall settings can be a daunting task, especially if you're not familiar with it. While it's necessary to adjust your firewall settings to enable RDP access, we want to remind you of the potential risks involved in making these changes. Your firewall is your first line of defense against outside attacks, and misconfiguring it can leave your VPS vulnerable to security risks. We recommend that you follow the steps we provided carefully and ensure that you only allow RDP access from trusted IP addresses. Additionally, it's always a good idea to consult with a qualified IT professional or our support team before making any significant changes to your firewall settings. We're here to help you configure your VPS securely and safely, and we're always available to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.
