![How to Enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10 [Best Guide]](https://framerusercontent.com/images/wvCxagFfY3QnxmgJz9jAzhO2E.jpg)
Search Docs…
Want to enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10 but can't find the option or encounter connection issues? You're not alone. Many users run into confusion because Remote Desktop isn't available on all Windows 10 editions, or they miss a few critical setup steps.
In this guide, we'll walk you through how to quickly enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10, explain the system requirements you need to meet, and help you troubleshoot common problems. Read on to turn on Remote Desktop smoothly and start controlling your PC remotely!
System Requirements to Allow Remote Desktop on Windows 10
Before enabling Remote Desktop on your Windows 10 PC, it's essential to ensure that your system meets the requirements. These requirements ensure that Remote Desktop can function properly and allow for a smooth remote connection. Below are the key factors you need to consider.
Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education Edition: Remote Desktop is not supported on Windows 10 Home. If you're using the Home edition, you will need to upgrade to Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education to enable the feature.
Stable Network Connection: For Remote Desktop to function properly, both the local and remote PCs must be connected to a stable and reliable network. A poor or intermittent internet connection could result in dropped sessions or poor performance.
Administrator Account Permissions: To enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10, you need to have administrative privileges on the PC. The account you're using must have permission to make system changes, including enabling Remote Desktop.
PC Must Be Powered On and Connected to the Internet During Remote Sessions: For remote access to work, the target PC must be powered on and connected to the internet. If the PC is asleep or turned off, the remote connection will fail.
By ensuring your system meets these requirements, you can avoid potential issues when setting up Remote Desktop. In the next section, we'll guide you through the steps to enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10.
Detailed Steps to Turn on Remote Desktop on Windows 10 PC
Enabling Remote Desktop on Windows 10 allows you to remotely access your PC from another device, making it easier to work or troubleshoot from a distance. Follow the steps below to set up Remote Desktop on your Windows 10 device.
Step 1. Open Settings (Win + I > System)
Press the "Windows key + I" to open the Settings app.
In the Settings window, click on the "System" option to proceed.
Step 2. Find and Turn On Remote Desktop
Scroll down within the "System" section until you find Remote Desktop.
Toggle the switch to "On" to enable the feature.
You will see a confirmation prompt; click "Confirm" to activate Remote Desktop.
Step 3. Confirm and Allow Access
Once Remote Desktop is turned on, you will need to confirm that your PC is accessible remotely.
Windows will show the PC name, which you'll need to connect from another device.
Make sure the Remote Desktop feature is enabled for remote access.
Step 4. Adjust Firewall Settings
To ensure your PC can accept remote connections, you need to allow Remote Desktop traffic through the firewall. Follow these steps:
Open the "Control Panel" by pressing "Win + R", typing "control", and pressing "Enter".
Go to "System and Security", and then select "Windows Defender Firewall".
In the left-hand menu, click "Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall".
Ensure that Remote Desktop is checked for both "Private" and "Public" network profiles.
Step 5. Add Additional Users if Needed
By default, only users with administrator privileges can remotely access the PC. If you want to grant access to other users, follow these steps:
In the Remote Desktop settings, click on "Select users that can remotely access this PC".
You will be prompted to add the usernames of users you wish to grant access to. Enter the name of the user, and click "Add".
These users will now be able to connect remotely to your PC, provided they have the correct login credentials.
How to Find Your Windows 10 Computer Name or IP Address
After enabling Remote Desktop, you'll need your computer's name or IP address to establish a successful connection from another device. Here's how to quickly find this information on Windows 10.
Find Your Computer Name
Press "Win + I" to open the Settings app.
Navigate to "System > About".
Under the "Device specifications" section, look for Device name — this is your computer's name, which you'll use for Remote Desktop connections.
Find Your IP Address
Press "Win + R", type "cmd", and press "Enter" to open the Command Prompt.
In the Command Prompt window, type "ipconfig" and press "Enter".
Look for the IPv4 Address under your active network connection. This is your PC's IP address.
After you've got all the information you need, you can start to connect with the Remote Desktop Connection to easily remote access another Windows computer!
👀 Tips:
If you are connecting within the same local network (LAN), using the Device name is usually enough.
For connections over the internet, you might need the public IP address and configure router settings like port forwarding.
Common Fixes About Remote Desktop Windows 10 Activation
Even after following the setup steps, you might encounter issues when trying to activate or use Remote Desktop on Windows 10. Below are answers and solutions to some of the most common problems.
Can't Find Remote Desktop Connection Windows 10?
If you can't locate the Remote Desktop settings or app on your Windows 10 device, it could be due to one of the following reasons:
Windows 10 Home Edition: Remote Desktop is not available on Windows 10 Home. You will need to upgrade to Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education to access this feature.
Feature Not Enabled: Even on supported editions, Remote Desktop may not be turned on by default. Follow the steps outlined earlier to enable it manually.
Hidden Settings: Sometimes, system updates or IT policies may hide Remote Desktop settings. Ensure your Windows 10 installation is up-to-date and check with your system administrator if needed.
Cannot Use Remote Desktop Connection on Windows 10?
If you have enabled Remote Desktop but still cannot connect, check the following:
Firewall Settings: Ensure that Remote Desktop is allowed through Windows Defender Firewall. Go to "Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall > Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall", and make sure Remote Desktop is enabled for both private and public networks.
Network Configuration: Remote Desktop requires a stable network connection. If you're connecting over the internet, you may need to configure port forwarding (TCP 3389) on your router.
User Permissions: By default, only administrator accounts are allowed to connect remotely. Make sure the user account you are trying to use has remote access permission. You can add users in "Settings > System > Remote Desktop > Select users that can remotely access this PC".
Does Remote Desktop Connection Come with Windows 10?
Remote Desktop Connection is included in certain editions of Windows 10, but not all:
Included: Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions come with built-in Remote Desktop functionality.
Not Included: Windows 10 Home edition does not support Remote Desktop hosting (only connecting to other PCs is possible).
If you're using Windows 10 Home and want to enable Remote Desktop hosting, you will need to upgrade to a Pro version or explore third-party remote desktop software alternatives.
Bonus: An Easier Alternative to Remote Desktop - DeskIn App
While Windows 10's built-in Remote Desktop is powerful, it can sometimes be complicated to set up, especially if you're using the Home edition, dealing with network configurations, or facing firewall restrictions. If you're looking for a faster, easier, and more flexible way to access your PC remotely, DeskIn is a highly recommended alternative.
👀 DeskIn offers:
No version limitations: Works across Windows 10 Home, Pro, and other editions.
Simple setup: No need to configure firewalls or ports.
Cross-platform access: Connect from Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and even Web browsers.
High-speed performance: Optimized for smooth remote sessions, even on lower bandwidths.
With DeskIn, you can start remote control in just a few clicks, no complicated system settings required. Here are the brief steps for you to use it.
Download and install DeskIn on both your local and remote devices.
Sign up and log in with the same DeskIn account on both sides.
Get the DeskIn ID of the remote device you want to control.
Enter the ID and connect, then enjoy a smooth and secure remote session instantly.
Final Words
Enabling Remote Desktop on Windows 10 can greatly enhance your productivity, whether you're accessing work files from home or providing support to another PC. By following the correct setup steps and addressing common issues, you can ensure a smooth and secure remote connection.
If you find Remote Desktop too complicated or limited by system requirements, tools like DeskIn offer a simpler and more flexible alternative. Choose the method that best fits your needs, and enjoy seamless remote access on Windows 10!
Want to enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10 but can't find the option or encounter connection issues? You're not alone. Many users run into confusion because Remote Desktop isn't available on all Windows 10 editions, or they miss a few critical setup steps.
In this guide, we'll walk you through how to quickly enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10, explain the system requirements you need to meet, and help you troubleshoot common problems. Read on to turn on Remote Desktop smoothly and start controlling your PC remotely!
System Requirements to Allow Remote Desktop on Windows 10
Before enabling Remote Desktop on your Windows 10 PC, it's essential to ensure that your system meets the requirements. These requirements ensure that Remote Desktop can function properly and allow for a smooth remote connection. Below are the key factors you need to consider.
Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education Edition: Remote Desktop is not supported on Windows 10 Home. If you're using the Home edition, you will need to upgrade to Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education to enable the feature.
Stable Network Connection: For Remote Desktop to function properly, both the local and remote PCs must be connected to a stable and reliable network. A poor or intermittent internet connection could result in dropped sessions or poor performance.
Administrator Account Permissions: To enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10, you need to have administrative privileges on the PC. The account you're using must have permission to make system changes, including enabling Remote Desktop.
PC Must Be Powered On and Connected to the Internet During Remote Sessions: For remote access to work, the target PC must be powered on and connected to the internet. If the PC is asleep or turned off, the remote connection will fail.
By ensuring your system meets these requirements, you can avoid potential issues when setting up Remote Desktop. In the next section, we'll guide you through the steps to enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10.
Detailed Steps to Turn on Remote Desktop on Windows 10 PC
Enabling Remote Desktop on Windows 10 allows you to remotely access your PC from another device, making it easier to work or troubleshoot from a distance. Follow the steps below to set up Remote Desktop on your Windows 10 device.
Step 1. Open Settings (Win + I > System)
Press the "Windows key + I" to open the Settings app.
In the Settings window, click on the "System" option to proceed.
Step 2. Find and Turn On Remote Desktop
Scroll down within the "System" section until you find Remote Desktop.
Toggle the switch to "On" to enable the feature.
You will see a confirmation prompt; click "Confirm" to activate Remote Desktop.
Step 3. Confirm and Allow Access
Once Remote Desktop is turned on, you will need to confirm that your PC is accessible remotely.
Windows will show the PC name, which you'll need to connect from another device.
Make sure the Remote Desktop feature is enabled for remote access.
Step 4. Adjust Firewall Settings
To ensure your PC can accept remote connections, you need to allow Remote Desktop traffic through the firewall. Follow these steps:
Open the "Control Panel" by pressing "Win + R", typing "control", and pressing "Enter".
Go to "System and Security", and then select "Windows Defender Firewall".
In the left-hand menu, click "Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall".
Ensure that Remote Desktop is checked for both "Private" and "Public" network profiles.
Step 5. Add Additional Users if Needed
By default, only users with administrator privileges can remotely access the PC. If you want to grant access to other users, follow these steps:
In the Remote Desktop settings, click on "Select users that can remotely access this PC".
You will be prompted to add the usernames of users you wish to grant access to. Enter the name of the user, and click "Add".
These users will now be able to connect remotely to your PC, provided they have the correct login credentials.
How to Find Your Windows 10 Computer Name or IP Address
After enabling Remote Desktop, you'll need your computer's name or IP address to establish a successful connection from another device. Here's how to quickly find this information on Windows 10.
Find Your Computer Name
Press "Win + I" to open the Settings app.
Navigate to "System > About".
Under the "Device specifications" section, look for Device name — this is your computer's name, which you'll use for Remote Desktop connections.
Find Your IP Address
Press "Win + R", type "cmd", and press "Enter" to open the Command Prompt.
In the Command Prompt window, type "ipconfig" and press "Enter".
Look for the IPv4 Address under your active network connection. This is your PC's IP address.
After you've got all the information you need, you can start to connect with the Remote Desktop Connection to easily remote access another Windows computer!
👀 Tips:
If you are connecting within the same local network (LAN), using the Device name is usually enough.
For connections over the internet, you might need the public IP address and configure router settings like port forwarding.
Common Fixes About Remote Desktop Windows 10 Activation
Even after following the setup steps, you might encounter issues when trying to activate or use Remote Desktop on Windows 10. Below are answers and solutions to some of the most common problems.
Can't Find Remote Desktop Connection Windows 10?
If you can't locate the Remote Desktop settings or app on your Windows 10 device, it could be due to one of the following reasons:
Windows 10 Home Edition: Remote Desktop is not available on Windows 10 Home. You will need to upgrade to Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Education to access this feature.
Feature Not Enabled: Even on supported editions, Remote Desktop may not be turned on by default. Follow the steps outlined earlier to enable it manually.
Hidden Settings: Sometimes, system updates or IT policies may hide Remote Desktop settings. Ensure your Windows 10 installation is up-to-date and check with your system administrator if needed.
Cannot Use Remote Desktop Connection on Windows 10?
If you have enabled Remote Desktop but still cannot connect, check the following:
Firewall Settings: Ensure that Remote Desktop is allowed through Windows Defender Firewall. Go to "Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall > Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall", and make sure Remote Desktop is enabled for both private and public networks.
Network Configuration: Remote Desktop requires a stable network connection. If you're connecting over the internet, you may need to configure port forwarding (TCP 3389) on your router.
User Permissions: By default, only administrator accounts are allowed to connect remotely. Make sure the user account you are trying to use has remote access permission. You can add users in "Settings > System > Remote Desktop > Select users that can remotely access this PC".
Does Remote Desktop Connection Come with Windows 10?
Remote Desktop Connection is included in certain editions of Windows 10, but not all:
Included: Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions come with built-in Remote Desktop functionality.
Not Included: Windows 10 Home edition does not support Remote Desktop hosting (only connecting to other PCs is possible).
If you're using Windows 10 Home and want to enable Remote Desktop hosting, you will need to upgrade to a Pro version or explore third-party remote desktop software alternatives.
Bonus: An Easier Alternative to Remote Desktop - DeskIn App
While Windows 10's built-in Remote Desktop is powerful, it can sometimes be complicated to set up, especially if you're using the Home edition, dealing with network configurations, or facing firewall restrictions. If you're looking for a faster, easier, and more flexible way to access your PC remotely, DeskIn is a highly recommended alternative.
👀 DeskIn offers:
No version limitations: Works across Windows 10 Home, Pro, and other editions.
Simple setup: No need to configure firewalls or ports.
Cross-platform access: Connect from Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and even Web browsers.
High-speed performance: Optimized for smooth remote sessions, even on lower bandwidths.
With DeskIn, you can start remote control in just a few clicks, no complicated system settings required. Here are the brief steps for you to use it.
Download and install DeskIn on both your local and remote devices.
Sign up and log in with the same DeskIn account on both sides.
Get the DeskIn ID of the remote device you want to control.
Enter the ID and connect, then enjoy a smooth and secure remote session instantly.
Final Words
Enabling Remote Desktop on Windows 10 can greatly enhance your productivity, whether you're accessing work files from home or providing support to another PC. By following the correct setup steps and addressing common issues, you can ensure a smooth and secure remote connection.
If you find Remote Desktop too complicated or limited by system requirements, tools like DeskIn offer a simpler and more flexible alternative. Choose the method that best fits your needs, and enjoy seamless remote access on Windows 10!
