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How to Use Remote Desktop: Quick Start Guide

This article explains the system requirements, how to enable Remote Desktop on Windows, how to connect from other devices, and how to securely manage your server through a graphical interface from anywhere.

Remote Desktop Protocol lets you manage your server from anywhere as if you were sitting in front of it. You can connect from a local Windows 10 and 11 PC, as well as from any Windows, Android, or iOS device — all you need is the computer name and network access.

With Remote Desktop set up, you get full GUI access to your server: install software, move files, troubleshoot services, and run administrative tasks without leaving your current device.

Key Benefits of Remote Desktop

  1. Cross-platform access — connect from Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS.
  2. Full GUI control — manage your server the same way you would a local PC.
  3. Free, built-in Windows tool — all built-in Windows tools do not require an additional license when connecting remotely.
  4. Secure session — encrypted by default and tied to your Windows account.
  5. Quick setup — ready to use in just a few clicks on Windows Pro.

What are the requirements for using Remote Desktop?

  1. Windows Pro on the server

    The is*hosting remote desktop server always comes with Windows Pro. Windows Home does not support incoming Remote Desktop connections.

    To check your edition on Windows 11:

    • Go to Start → Settings → System → About.
    • Look for the Edition field.
    • If you have Windows Home, upgrade it to Windows Pro before continuing.
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  2. A client device

    Any Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS device with the Remote Desktop app installed (or the built-in Remote Desktop Connection on Windows).

  3. Network access to the server
    A stable internet connection and the server’s computer name or IP address. Port 3389 (TCP) must be reachable from your client device.
  4. Valid user credentials
    A Windows user account on the server with permission to log in via Remote Desktop. When you activate a Windows server, we create one default account and send access details to your email.

Once you have a server installed with RDP enabled, you can connect from virtually any device. To connect to your server from other devices, follow the "Connecting to Your Server from Other Devices" guide.

You can now manage your server remotely — install applications, configure services, and run everyday administrative tasks from anywhere. To connect a microphone from your local computer to a remote computer, follow the "Using a Microphone via Windows Remote Desktop (RDP)" guide.

If you have any questions, you can ask them in the online chat in the lower-right corner of the site or create a request to the support service through the ticket system.