How to Install and Configure Remote Desktop on Windows VPS?

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a powerful tool that allows you to access and control your Windows VPS from anywhere in the world. Whether you’re managing a 100TB Storage VPS on Windows or running critical applications, RDP provides a seamless way to interact with your server as if you were sitting right in front of it. This guide will walk you through the steps to install and configure Remote Desktop on your Windows VPS, ensuring you can manage your server efficiently and securely.

1. Understanding Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a proprietary protocol developed by Microsoft that enables users to connect to another computer over a network connection. It provides a graphical interface to interact with the remote system, making it an essential tool for managing Windows VPS.

Remote Access: Access your Windows VPS from any location with an internet connection.
Graphical Interface: Interact with your server using a familiar desktop environment.
File Transfer: Easily transfer files between your local machine and the VPS.

2. Prerequisites for Installing Remote Desktop

Before you begin the installation and configuration process, ensure you have the following prerequisites:

Windows VPS: A Windows-based VPS with administrative access.
Administrative Credentials: Username and password for the administrator account on the VPS.
RDP Client: An RDP client installed on your local machine (e.g., Remote Desktop Connection on Windows or Microsoft Remote Desktop on macOS).

3. Enabling Remote Desktop on Your Windows VPS

The first step is to enable Remote Desktop on your Windows VPS. Follow these steps to do so:

Step 3.1: Log in to Your Windows VPS

Using RDP: If you already have RDP access, log in using your credentials.
Using a Control Panel: If your hosting provider offers a control panel (e.g., Plesk, cPanel), log in and access the VPS through the provided interface.

Step 3.2: Open System Properties

Press Win + R: Open the Run dialog box by pressing the Windows key and R simultaneously.
Type sysdm.cpl: Enter sysdm.cpl and press Enter to open the System Properties window.

Step 3.3: Enable Remote Desktop

Navigate to the Remote Tab: In the System Properties window, click on the "Remote" tab.
Enable Remote Desktop: Under the Remote Desktop section, select "Allow remote connections to this computer."
Confirm Settings: Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes.

Step 3.4: Configure Firewall Settings

To allow RDP traffic through the firewall, follow these steps:

Open Windows Firewall: Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
Allow an App or Feature: Click on "Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall."
Enable Remote Desktop: Check the boxes for "Remote Desktop" under both private and public networks.
Save Changes: Click "OK" to save the settings.

4. Configuring Remote Desktop for Enhanced Security

While enabling Remote Desktop is straightforward, configuring it for enhanced security is crucial to protect your 100TB Storage VPS on Windows from potential threats.

Step 4.1: Change the Default RDP Port

The default RDP port (3389) is a common target for attackers. Changing it can reduce the risk of automated attacks.

Open Registry Editor: Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
Navigate to RDP Port Key: Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp.
Modify Port Number: Double-click on "PortNumber" and change the value to a non-standard port (e.g., 3390).
Restart the VPS: Restart your VPS to apply the changes.

Step 4.2: Enable Network Level Authentication (NLA)

Network Level Authentication (NLA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring authentication before establishing an RDP session.

Open System Properties: Follow the steps in Section 3.2 to open System Properties.
Enable NLA: Under the Remote tab, check the box for "Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication."
Save Changes: Click "Apply" and then "OK."

Step 4.3: Restrict RDP Access by IP

Limiting RDP access to specific IP addresses can further enhance security.

Open Windows Firewall: Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
Create a New Rule: Click on "Advanced settings" and then "Inbound Rules."
New Inbound Rule Wizard: Select "Port" and click "Next."
Specify Port: Enter the custom RDP port (e.g., 3390) and click "Next."
Allow the Connection: Select "Allow the connection" and click "Next."
Specify IP Addresses: Choose "These IP addresses" and add the IP addresses you want to allow.
Complete the Wizard: Name the rule and click "Finish."

5. Connecting to Your Windows VPS via Remote Desktop

Once Remote Desktop is enabled and configured, you can connect to your Windows VPS from your local machine.

Step 5.1: Open Remote Desktop Connection

On Windows: Press Win + R, type mstsc, and press Enter.
On macOS: Open the Microsoft Remote Desktop app.

Step 5.2: Enter Connection Details

IP Address and Port: Enter the IP address of your VPS followed by the custom RDP port (e.g., 192.168.1.1:3390).
Username and Password: Enter your administrative credentials.

Step 5.3: Connect and Manage

Click Connect: Click "Connect" to establish the RDP session.
Interact with Your VPS: Once connected, you can interact with your Windows VPS as if you were physically present.

6. Best Practices for Using Remote Desktop

To ensure a secure and efficient Remote Desktop experience, follow these best practices:

Use Strong Passwords: Ensure your administrative account has a strong, unique password.
Regularly Update Your VPS: Keep your Windows VPS updated with the latest security patches and updates.
Monitor RDP Logs: Regularly review RDP logs for any suspicious activity.
Disable RDP When Not in Use: If you don’t need RDP access, disable it to reduce the attack surface.

Conclusion:

Installing and configuring Remote Desktop on your Windows VPS, especially a 100TB Storage VPS on Windows, is a straightforward process that offers significant benefits in terms of remote management and accessibility. By enabling RDP, changing the default port, enabling Network Level Authentication, and restricting access by IP, you can enhance the security of your VPS while enjoying the convenience of remote access.

Whether you’re managing a large storage server or running critical applications, Remote Desktop provides the tools you need to efficiently and securely control your Windows VPS from anywhere in the world. Follow the steps outlined in this guide to set up and configure Remote Desktop, ensuring a seamless and secure remote management experience. Visit Hostnamaste to know more information.