Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a technology from Microsoft that allows users to remotely access another computer. This is done through a network connection, making it seem as if you are physically sitting at that computer. RDP is built into Windows systems and is used worldwide by IT administrators, home workers and help desks.
Unlike tools such as TeamViewer or AnyDesk, which often work through a cloud server, RDP uses your network or a VPN connection directly. This gives you more control over the connection, but also puts you in charge of security.
RDP allows you to view another computer's desktop and work with it as if you were logged in locally. You can open programs, manage files and adjust settings – all from another location.
Remote Desktop Protocol works on a client-server model. The computer you want to control remotely (the “host”) acts as the server, while the computer you connect to (the “client”) acts as the client. Through RDP, an encrypted session is established in which the operation and display of the host computer becomes visible on the client.
When you set up an RDP connection, the following happens:
The client connects to the host via an IP address or network name, often via port 3389.
The host asks for login credentials, which you enter through the client.
After authentication, the host sends only the screen image to the client and receives keyboard and mouse input back.
The user on the client operates the host as if he or she were physically behind it.
RDP does not send full videos of the desktop, but graphic instructions (such as window moves and pixel updates). This makes it more efficient than a traditional screen stream. Furthermore, data such as sound, clipboard content, local printers or disks (optional) are also shared between client and host.
RDP uses port 3389 by default via the TCP protocol. This means that network traffic through this port must be allowed on firewalls and routers if you want to access externally.
The connection is secured with TLS (Transport Layer Security) encryption. However, it is still essential to take additional security measures because RDP is often the target of attacks such as brute force login attempts or abuse of vulnerabilities.
RDP is important because it enables organizations and users to work flexibly, efficiently and remotely. Especially in times of hybrid work or remote support, a reliable way to access systems is crucial. RDP provides that capability without the need for physical presence.
RDP is used in the following situations, among others:
Working from home: Employees can securely log in to their office PC from home.
System management: IT teams can remotely manage, configure or restore servers and workstations.
Support: Help desks use RDP to assist users without having to physically visit.
Education: Schools and students use RDP to access school-only software or systems, such as programming tools or compute-intensive applications.
Accessing resources: Employees or students can access specific files, software, or network drives that are only available internally.
By using RDP, companies can save costs on physical presence, office space and hardware. A user does not have to be on site to use a powerful machine – only a stable Internet connection and a client device are required.
RDP is also scalable: it works for one user as well as hundreds, depending on the infrastructure. This makes it suitable for small businesses as well as large enterprises.
RDP is also often used to access virtual machines in data centers or cloud environments, such as Azure Virtual Machines. This makes it possible to manage or use powerful environments from a simple laptop, without physical access to the hardware.
Setting up a Remote Desktop Protocol connection is relatively simple, but it does require some preparation on both the host and client sides. Below we explain the main steps.
The host is the computer to which you want to connect remotely. Make sure it is ready for incoming RDP connections:
Enable Remote Desktop:
Go to Settings > System > Remote Desktop.
Enable Remote Desktop.
Grant access:
Add the account of the user who is allowed access.
Leave computer on:
Make sure the host computer is on and not hibernating.
Check network:
The host and client must be able to reach each other over the network. For external use, a VPN or port forwarding is required.
The most commonly used client is Remote Desktop Connection, which comes standard on Windows:
Open the Remote Desktop Connection app (type mstsc in the start menu).
Enter the IP address or computer name of the host.
Click Connect and, if prompted, enter your login credentials.
For Mac users, the official Microsoft Remote Desktop app is available through the App Store. For Linux, there are alternatives such as Remmina or rdesktop.
To connect via a network or the Internet:
Port 3389 must be open on the host's firewall.
For external access, port 3389 must be forwarded on the router.
Preferably use a VPN so that the connection is within a secure network.
Make sure RDP traffic is not open to the entire Internet (0.0.0.0), to reduce risk.
Although the Remote Desktop Protocol is primarily known from Microsoft, there are several programs and tools available that allow you to set up an RDP connection. Some are specific to Windows, while others are platform-independent.
The best-known and most widely used RDP software is Microsoft Remote Desktop. It is built into Windows Pro, Enterprise and Server versions by default. The client application is available for:
Windows (installed by default)
macOS (via the App Store)
Web (via https://rdweb.wvd.microsoft.com/arm/webclient)
The interface is simple: you enter the IP address or computer name of the host and log in with your user credentials.
Some users opt for other remote desktop solutions. These are often tools that work more easily outside corporate networks, or offer additional features such as file transfer and multi-monitor support:
AnyDesk: Lightweight, fast and suitable for multiple platforms.
TeamViewer: Known for its simple setup and wide use within support environments.
Chrome Remote Desktop: Works through the browser and requires only a Google account.
VNC (Virtual Network Computing): An alternative protocol that is very similar to RDP, but requires more configuration.
Although RDP is primarily used by Windows, it is also available on other operating systems:
macOS: Through the official Microsoft Remote Desktop app.
Linux: Programs such as Remmina or rdesktop support RDP and are suitable for administrators working with Linux.
Mobile: Through the Microsoft Remote Desktop app, tablets, and smartphones can also connect to Windows PCs.
While RDP is very convenient, it also carries serious security risks. Because it provides direct access to an entire system, it is a popular target for cybercriminals. Unprotected RDP access can lead to data breaches, ransomware attacks or complete system compromise.
Brute force attacks
Attackers attempt thousands of password combinations to log in via automated scripts. Accounts with weak passwords are especially vulnerable.
Open port on the Internet
When port 3389 is open to the entire world (0.0.0.0), anyone can try to connect. This significantly increases the risk.
Unpatched systems
Vulnerabilities regularly appear in RDP, such as BlueKeep (CVE-2019-0708), which can be exploited if the system is not up-to-date.
Man-in-the-middle attacks
When using unsecured networks, an attacker can intercept data traffic and potentially take over sessions.
There have been several instances where attacks via RDP have resulted in major damage:
Ransomware such as Conti and REvil was often spread via RDP.
Several data breaches were caused by RDP servers being accessed unprotected over the Internet.
Research shows that tens of thousands of RDP login pages are publicly visible through tools such as Shodan.
So the impact of a poorly secured RDP setup cannot be underestimated.
An RDP connection can be used securely if the right measures are taken. Especially since RDP is often the target of attacks, it is important not to rely solely on default settings. Below are practical tips for secure RDP configuration.
Ensure that all accounts accessed via RDP have strong and unique passwords. Combine this with MFA whenever possible, so that a login attempt always requires a second check - for example, via an app or SMS code.
RDP uses port 3389 by default. This port is known to attackers. By changing the port to another number, you make it slightly less visible to automated scans. However, keep in mind that this is not a substitute for other security measures.
A VPN ensures that the RDP connection takes place within a closed network. As a result, the host is not directly visible on the Internet, drastically reducing the risk of attacks.
Allow only specific IP addresses to the RDP port via firewall rules. This allows only pre-approved locations to connect, such as an employee's office or home address.
Within business environments, you can use group policy to enforce settings, such as:
Allow only encrypted connections
Time limits for inactive sessions
Restrict access to specific users or groups
Always install the latest operating system security updates. Vulnerabilities in RDP are frequently exploited once they are made public.
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a powerful technology that allows you to take full control of a computer remotely. Whether you work in the office, at home, at school or on the road, RDP offers flexibility and efficiency. Not surprisingly, it is widely used worldwide within both businesses and educational institutions.
At the same time, RDP is not without risk. Unsecured use can lead to serious security incidents, ranging from data breaches to ransomware. Fortunately, secure use is quite possible with the right measures, such as strong passwords, VPN access and regular updates.
By using RDP smartly and being security conscious, users can reap the benefits without running unnecessary risks.
RDP stands for Remote Desktop Protocol. It is a protocol developed by Microsoft that allows you to remotely access another computer through a network connection.
You make an RDP connection by using a client program (such as Remote Desktop Connection on Windows), entering the IP address or host name, and logging in with valid user credentials.
RDP sends the host computer's screen to the client and receives keyboard and mouse input back. Only the screen data and input are sent, not the entire environment.
By default, RDP uses port 3389 over the TCP protocol. This port must be open on firewalls and routers to allow connection.
