By Using a Remote desktop ability two users can connect with and use a far away desktop computer from a separate computer. They can access their desktop computer, open and edit files, and use applications as if they were actually working at their desktop computer. Employees often use remote desktop software to access their work computers when they are traveling, working from home, or providing any technical support to any client.
What Is Remote Desktop Protocol?
The Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a protocol, or technical standard, for accessing a desktop computer remotely. Remote desktop software can use several different protocols but RDP is the most commonly used protocol. RDP was initially released by Microsoft and it is available for most Windows operating systems, but can be used with Mac operating systems too.
How Does RDP Work?
Using RDP is somewhat like a remote controlled toy car or Drone. The user’s mouse movements and keystrokes are transmitted to their desktop computer remotely over the internet connectivity. The user’s desktop is displayed on the computer they are connecting from, just as if they were sitting in front of it.
The RDP protocol opens a dedicated channel for data transmission between the connected systems. It always uses network port 3389 for this purpose. Mouse movements, keystrokes, the desktop display, and all other necessary data are sent over this channel via Transport Protocol TCP/IP.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of RDP?
Advantages
There are several advantages of using RDP.
- It does not require a VPN(Virtual Private Network).
- It keeps data stored securely on the user’s desktop, instead of storing it on cloud servers.
- RDP enables companies with a legacy on-premises IT setup to allow their employees to work from home.
Disadvantages
However, RDP has some disadvantages also, such as-
- Users can experience lag. If their local Internet connection is slow. This can frustrate remote users and cut down on their productivity.
- RDP also has some serious security vulnerabilities and risks that leave it open to cyber attacks.
How Is A Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Secure?
RDP works primarily well when both devices are located on the same network, as there is no need to bypass any specific firewall or other security infrastructure.
In terms of security, RDPs have major vulnerabilities, specifically with past versions of Windows. Since Windows no longer supports the maintenance of past operating systems, these past versions become more vulnerable over time. This is true for most software and operating systems, which is why it’s important to ensure that software is regularly maintained and updated.
Newer versions of Windows operating systems patch these vulnerabilities, but RDP is still not the most secure remote access option.
What Are Use-Cases Of RDP?
If you are still not sure whether you need a remote desktop protocol or not, check these situational examples where you would need a remote desktop connection.
1. Traveling
Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, you can always use the remote desktop protocol to access your office desktop. It doesn’t matter where in the world you are, you can do your job using RDP while not being physically present in the office.
2. Work From Home
Nowadays there can be thousands of reasons for people to work from home. No matter what the reason is, you still have to fulfil your daily tasks. RDP makes it possible to connect to your office computer from your laptop or PC at home.
3. Technical Support
If you are working in a customer service center or as a technical support agent, you will be getting calls all day about the issues. Some customers are not as familiar with the computing system as you are. Here you can use an RDP to easily connect to their computer and help them with even basic actions you want.
4. Hardware Limitations
Sometimes, our laptops or PC systems have limitations in terms of RAM or CPU for the kind of job we are doing. Using an RDP, you can connect to a more powerful workstation and benefit from your own limited system.
5. Botting RDP
If you’re a developer making and running different types of bots. To check that they’re working flawlessly or not, Botting RDP is used. You can use a botting RDP server to test your bots before the official release and check if there’s room for improvement.
How To Use The Remote Desktop Protocol?
You must set up your host computer first to establish a remote connection. Here’s how to configure your Windows PC:
- Open “Settings.”
- Go to the “System” tab.
- Click “Remote desktop.”
- Toggle the switch next to “Remote desktop” to “On.”
- Click “Confirm.”
- Note the name of your PC for later.
Now that your PC allows remote connections, you can access it from another location by following these instructions:
- Type “Remote desktop connection” in the search box and select the “Remote desktop connection” application.
- Type the name of a computer you want to connect to.
- Click “Connect.”
Can We Use RDP On Linux?
RDP is a Windows-based protocol and widely used for communication between Windows systems but it doesn’t mean that you can’t use it on Linux. The best solution for using RDP on Linux is xRDP. xRDP is a free and open-source RDP server which is primarily designed for Linux and Unix-like operating systems to use the RDP protocol and have a functional remote desktop experience.
Conclusion
In this complete article we have covered all the needful aspects of RDP should know about. Ultimately we can say the remote desktop protocol has made the world of computing a lot easier. Whether you already have a specific remote device or you need access to a server, you can use RDP for a smoother connection. If you have further questions or doubts you can contact us without any hesitation. Our experts’ support team is always available and eager to assist you 24/7.
