remote desktop protocol (RDP)


Introduction

RDP stands for Remote Desktop Protocol. It is a technical standard for remotely accessing a desktop computer. Although RDP is the most used, RDP, Independent Computing Architecture (ICA), and virtual network computing (VNC) are some protocols that remote desktop applications can employ. Microsoft first released RDP, and is compatible with most Windows operating systems, although it can also be used with Macs.

How does RDP work?

The RDP protocol establishes a dedicated network channel for data transmission between connected devices. For instance, it always uses network port 3389. TCP/IP, the transport protocol used for most forms of Internet traffic, is utilized to send mouse movements, keystrokes, the desktop display, and any other necessary data via this channel. RDP additionally encrypts all data for more secure communications over the public Internet with the help of Parallels RAS.

Features and functions of RDP:-

RDP is supported for 24-bit color and performs better over low-speed connections. Moreover, it has intelligent card authentication through remote desktop services. It has keyboard hooking, which allows direct, particular window key combinations to full-screen mode.

How secure is Windows remote desktop?

Remote Desktop sessions are transmitted through an encrypted channel, preventing anyone on the network from viewing your session. However, earlier versions of RDP have a weakness in the way they used to encrypt sessions. A man-in-the-middle attack on this vulnerability could provide unwanted access to your session. In Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, and Windows Server 2003/2008/2012/2016, Remote Desktops can be secured using SSL/TLS.

How to enable remote desktop connections on Windows?

Using the Distant Desktop settings in Settings is the most straightforward approach to grant access to your PC from a remote device. Since the Fall Creators update (1709) provided this feature, a separately downloaded app is now available for prior Windows versions that provide identical capabilities. You can also enable Remote Desktop using the old technique; however, this method offers less functionality and validation.

How to connect to a remote desktop on Windows?

  • On the taskbar, click the search bar.
  • Type remote desktop into the search box.
  • The search results are displayed in a list.
  • Select Remote Desktop Connection from the drop-down menu.
  • Type the IP address or name of the Windows device you wish to connect to in the Remote Desktop Connection window, then click Connect.
  • Click OK after entering the username and password you want to use on your connecting machine.
  • If you're told that the remote computer can't be authorized because its security certificate isn't valid, click yes to connect.