Q: Using RDS (Remote Desktop Services) to connect to a remote host on Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server 2025

Remote Desktop Services (RDS), formerly known as Terminal Services, allows users to connect to a remote computer or server over a network. This guide explains how to set up and use RDS to connect to a remote host on Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server 2025.

✅ Prerequisites

Before enabling RDS, ensure the following:

1. Remote Desktop is enabled on the host machine (the one you're connecting to).
2. The host machine must be running a Windows edition that supports Remote Desktop:

• Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education (Home edition does not support RDS as a host).
• Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, or Education.
• Windows Server 2025 (all editions support RDS).

1. The user account used to connect must have remote access permissions.
2. A stable network connection (preferably local or secure internet).
3. The Remote Desktop Services role must be installed on the host if using Windows Server 2025.

???? Step 1: Enable Remote Desktop on the Host Machine

On Windows 10 / 11:

1. Open Settings > System > Remote Desktop.
2. Toggle Enable Remote Desktop to On.
3. Note the computer name (e.g., DESKTOP-ABC123) — this is used to connect.
4. Click Confirm and ensure the user account has permission to connect.

⚠️ If you're using Windows Home, RDS is not supported. You’ll need to upgrade to Pro or use third-party tools like Microsoft Remote Desktop (client only) or AnyDesk, TeamViewer, etc.

On Windows Server 2025:

1. Open Server Manager.
2. Click Add roles and features.
3. In the Server Roles section, select Remote Desktop Services.
4. Follow the wizard to install the required components.
5. After installation, go to Remote Desktop Services in Server Manager and configure the deployment.

???? For Windows Server 2025, you may also need to install and activate RDS licenses (see [FAQ #311] for details).

???? Step 2: Configure User Permissions

1. On the host machine, open System Properties:

• Right-click This PC > Properties > Remote settings.

1. Under Remote, click Select Users.
2. Add the user(s) who should be allowed to connect remotely.
3. Ensure the user has a password and is not blocked by the firewall.

???? Firewall Note: Windows Firewall allows Remote Desktop by default, but ensure the Remote Desktop (TCP-In) rule is enabled.

????️ Step 3: Connect Using the Remote Desktop Client

On Windows 10 / 11:

1. Press Windows + R, type mstsc, and press Enter.
2. In the Remote Desktop Connection window:

• Enter the IP address or computer name of the host.
• Click Connect.

1. Enter the username and password of the remote user when prompted.
2. Click Yes to accept the security certificate if it's the first time.

✅ Tip: Save the connection as a .rdp file for future use by clicking Save As in the dialog.

On Windows Server 2025:

Use the same process as above. The RDS client is included in all Windows editions.

???? Optional: Use a Public IP or Domain Name

If connecting over the internet:

1. Ensure the host has a public IP address or a domain name (e.g., remote.company.com).
2. Configure port forwarding on your router:

• Forward TCP port 3389 to the internal IP of the host machine.

1. Use a static IP or Dynamic DNS service to avoid IP changes.

???? Security Note: Exposing RDP directly to the internet increases risk. Use a VPN or Secure Gateway (e.g., NetBird, as referenced in [FAQ #337]) to secure the connection.

???? Security Best Practices

1. Use strong passwords for remote accounts.
2. Enable Network Level Authentication (NLA):

• In System Properties > Remote tab > check Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with NLA.

1. Change the default RDP port (3389) to reduce automated attacks:

• Edit the Windows Registry:
• Navigate to HKEYLOCALMACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp.
• Change the PortNumber value (e.g., to 3390).
• Update firewall rules accordingly.

1. Use a VPN instead of direct RDP access where possible.

????️ Troubleshooting Tips

???? Summary

To connect via RDS:

1. Enable Remote Desktop on the host (Windows 10/11/Server 2025).
2. Ensure the user has remote access rights.
3. Use mstsc.exe (Remote Desktop Connection) on the client.
4. Enter the host’s IP or name and log in.
5. Apply security best practices to protect your connection.

For advanced scenarios (e.g., multi-user sessions, RDS licensing), refer to [FAQ #311] for licensing and configuration on Windows Server 2025.

If you're still having issues, check:

• Your local IP address using ipconfig in Command Prompt (see [FAQ #341]).
• Whether your client machine can reach the host (test with ping <IP>).
• If NetBird or another secure tunnel is needed (see [FAQ #337]).

For further assistance, contact your IT support team.