Setting up remote desktop connection in Windows 7 - how it works
This practical tip shows you how to set up a remote desktop connection in Windows 7.
General information about Remote Desktop Connection
With a remote desktop connection, you can use the computer you are using to access another computer on the same network. The "desktop" of the other computer is displayed so that you have access to all files and programs on the other computer. You must generally observe these points so that a remote desktop connection can be established:
- The host PC (the PC to be accessed) must have either Windows 7 Professional, Ultimate or Enterprise installed as the operating system. The host function cannot be used under Windows 7 Starter, Home Basic and Home Premium! It must also be switched on during the remote desktop connection. Also make sure that port 3389 in your firewall is not blocked.
- You can access the host PC with any Windows 7 edition.
How to enable remote desktop connection from the host PC
- Click on the "Windows" icon and then right-click on the "Computer" entry. Here click on "Properties".
- In the window, click on "Remote Settings" on the left.
- Make sure that the "Remote" tab is selected in the "System Settings" window. First check the entry "Allow remote support connection with this computer".
- Then, at the bottom of the window, set the entry "Allow connections from computer on which any version of Remote Desktop is running (less security)".
- Now click on "Select user ...". If you have logged in with the administrator account, this will be added automatically. Otherwise, click on "Add ..." and enter the user names that are allowed to connect to the host PC. Confirm with OK".
Establish a remote desktop connection
- Click the "Windows" icon and type "Remote Desktop Connection" in the search field and click the search result.
- In the "Computer" field, enter either the IP address, the computer name or the web address (e.g. for university networks). Then click on "Connect".
- Next, enter your username and password. When you connect to a university network, you usually have to enter your university login data here. Check "Save login data" so that you will be automatically connected the next time.
- Finally, click on "Connect".
Alternative: Set up remote desktop connection with software
A remote desktop connection also simply works via the TeamViewer software. With the tool you save the many settings and can establish a connection relatively easily.
Tip: Here we tell you where to find the firewall settings in Windows.