How to Set Up Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection on Windows 10/11

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

Do you need to remotely access and control another Windows PC? Microsoft's Remote Desktop Connection tool can help you get it done. In this Guide you will learn How to Set Up Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection on Windows 10/11.

2. How to Setup

1. First, you or someone else must physically sign into the PC you want to remotely access. Enable Remote Desktop on this computer by opening Settings > System > Remote Desktop. Turn on the switch next to Enable Remote Desktop or Remote Desktop. Click Confirm to enable the setting.
   
   

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2. In Windows 10, the options to keep your PC awake for connections when plugged in and make your PC discoverable on private networks should both be enabled. To view or modify either option, you have to click the appropriate Show settings link. However, you can leave both options enabled at this point. Instead, click the Advanced Settings link.
   
   

1. Check the box next to Require computers to use Network Level Authentication (NLA) to connect. NLA adds tighter security for remote connections over the same network as users must be authenticated before gaining access to the remote PC.
   
   

1. Assuming you're connecting to a computer on the same network, you can ignore the External connections section. The section for Remote Desktop port shows the default port to listen for and accept a remote connection.
   
   

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   By default, any user with an admin account on the remote PC can access it. Assuming you're using a Microsoft Account or a user account for your company to sign into Windows, and your account has administrative rights, your best bet is to simply use that account to sign in remotely. |
   
2. If you want to grant remote access to a different account, return to the previous screen and click Select users that can remotely access this PC at the bottom of the screen. Click Add and enter the username for that account.
   
   
3. Finally, make note of the name of this computer as you'll need it to log in remotely. If you wish to change the computer name to something easier to remember, follow these steps. Close the Remote Desktop settings screen when you're finished.
   
   

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   Windows 11 dispenses with the advanced settings and simply displays the PC name and the option for adding another account that can access the PC. Click the setting for Select who can remotely access this PC if you need to grant a different account remote access capabilities.