Have you ever tried to access Windows Remote Desktop over the internet? Usually, Windows Remote Desktop works on your local network. To access Windows Remote Desktop over the internet, you need to install a virtual private network (VPN). But, if you use a professional or ultimate version of Windows, you will have the full version of Remote Desktop. With the full version, you can set it up to access it over the internet with some tweaks.

Here, we look at 3 different approaches to access Windows Remote Desktop over the internet. Depending upon your requirements, here are some methods to set it up.

Methods to Access Windows Remote Desktop Over the Internet

1. Via VPN: One of the easiest ways to access Windows Remote Desktop over the internet is by setting up a VPN connection. When you install a VPN in your computer, you can access your computer from outside and your computer will be like a part of the local server that is running Windows Remote Desktop. Through the VPN, you can easily access Windows Remote Desktop and other services over the internet without exposing your computer over the internet. A VPN connection is the safest option when it comes to enabling access to Remote Desktop over the internet and you can install VPN without much difficulty.
2. Exposing Remote Desktop Connection Via Internet: The next option to access Windows Remote Desktop over the internet is to expose Remote Desktop server over the internet. For this, you need to set up your router to remotely access the server of the computer to be accessed. The problem with this approach is that it allows malware and other viruses to attack your system through the internet. The only way to protect your system is by setting up a strong password for your PC so that hackers cannot hack it. This approach should be used only if you’re not in a position to use a VPN to gain access over the internet.
3. Access Single PC for Remote Desktop: If you have only one PC or you are planning to provide access to only one PC, then you can easily set up Windows Remote Desktop access over the internet. For this, you need to know the IP address of the system that is running the Remote Desktop. After that, move to your router and find the port forwarding section. Now, forward the TCP port 3389 to the IP address you have copied. You will be able to easily access Windows Remote Desktop over the internet with this system. If you have multiple computers, then you need to follow different steps that are more complicated and it is better to get the help of a professional to set it up.

Conclusion

To use the remote desktop option over the internet, the best approach is to use a VPN that does not require any extra effort from you. But, if you choose to go for one of the other two options, you will need to dig in more and use the more complicated methods to access Windows Remote Desktop connection over the internet.