Remote control Windows computer with Android smartphone

When you are on the go, you can also control your home Windows computer remotely with your Android smartphone. This means that data can also be exchanged on the go or the PC can be switched off after a longer update. We show you two options in this practical tip.

Set up extensive PC access for the Android smartphone

With the program "TightVNC" you can define precise rules for the connection.

1. Download TightVNC and install it on your PC. Make sure you download the correct version for your Windows.
2. After you have installed the program, a window appears. Enter the passwords here to set secure access. With the first password, you can later log in to your PC using your smartphone. The second password is used to protect the program on your computer from being changed.
3. At the bottom of the systray you will find the symbol of TightVNC. If you move the mouse over it, an IP address appears. You can then control the computer remotely in your own network at this address.
4. Right-click on the symbol in the systray so that you can later control the computer remotely via the Internet. Then click on "Configuration ...". Here you see the "Main Server Port" with the default value 5900. You must then address this port with the router via DynDNS, as explained in this practical tip.

Access the PC with a smartphone

So that you can now also access your PC with your smartphone, you need to install a simple app.

1. Download "Remote Ripple" from the Google Play store.
2. Start the program and click on "New Connection".
3. Under "Host" enter the IP address you get when you move the mouse pointer over the icon in the systray. For example, you can enter "Remote" as the name.
4. Now enter the password that you have set for remote access. Then click "OK" and your smartphone will show you the desktop of your computer.
5. For example, you can zoom in with the well-known Android gestures. You also have a mouse and keyboard at the top, which you can then use all functions.

Even easier: Control your computer remotely with TeamViewer for Android

Setting up access with the "TeamViewer" software is much easier than with TightVNC. This is also free, but offers fewer functions. However, it is sufficient for remote control of your computer.

1. Download both the PC version and the Android app from "TeamViewer".
2. When installing TeamViewer on your computer, set it up so that it can be remotely controlled by other devices. You set the appropriate check mark in the installation process.
3. If you want to access the PC at any time, you still need to create a TeamViewer account. For a one-time connection, it is sufficient to write down the "ID" and the "Password".
4. Then start the TeamViewer app if you want to access your computer with your smartphone.
5. First enter the ID and then the password you wrote down earlier.
6. Then a connection is established and you can control the PC remotely with your Android smartphone.

It was tested under Windows 7 and Android 4.1.2. The other way around, you can also control your Android smartphone remotely with your computer.