How to Connect to Remote Desktop on Different Operating Systems

Remote Desktop allows users to access computers and servers over the Internet and work remotely from any location. This technology is widely used for VPS servers, remote work, server administration, and business applications.

What is Remote Desktop

Remote access technology allows controlling another computer or server using network protocols.

• RDP — Remote Desktop Protocol for Windows;
• SSH — secure remote access for Linux;
• VNC — graphical remote access;
• Mobile Remote Desktop applications.

Windows Remote Desktop (RDP)

Windows includes a built-in Remote Desktop client.

Win + R
mstsc

Enter:

• server IP address;
• username;
• password.

Windows Server VPS

To connect to a Windows VPS you need:

• server IP address;
• RDP port;
• administrator account;
• password.

Linux Remote Access

Linux servers are usually managed through SSH.

ssh username@server_ip

Linux XRDP

sudo apt update
sudo apt install xrdp

XRDP allows Linux graphical desktop access using Remote Desktop clients.

macOS Remote Connection

macOS supports:

• Microsoft Remote Desktop;
• SSH Terminal;
• VNC.

Android Remote Desktop

Android devices can use:

• Microsoft Remote Desktop;
• AnyDesk;
• RustDesk;
• TeamViewer.

iPhone and iPad

Apple devices support:

• Microsoft Remote Desktop;
• AnyDesk;
• TeamViewer.

Proxmox VE

https://IP-address:8006

VMware ESXi

https://IP-address

VNC Remote Access

Popular VNC clients:

• RealVNC;
• TightVNC;
• UltraVNC;
• Remmina.

Remote Access Security

• Use strong passwords.
• Enable two-factor authentication.
• Restrict access by IP address.
• Use VPN connections.
• Keep systems updated.

Conclusion

Remote Desktop technology allows users to access computers and servers from anywhere. Windows uses RDP, Linux uses SSH and XRDP, while mobile devices use dedicated remote access applications.