Connecting Android to PC goes beyond just photo transfers — it's a smart way to boost productivity, streamline file access, and even control your devices remotely. Whether you're working from home, studying, or gaming, a solid Android-to-PC connection can make everyday tasks faster and easier.

In this guide, we'll show you the easiest ways to connect your phone to a PC, using USB, Microsoft Phone Link, or using DeskIn, a powerful tool to help you achieve Android connected to PC wirelessly. Let's get started!

👀 Related Reading:

How to Connect Two Android Phones Remotely [Tested Ways]

Traditional Ways to Connect Android Devices to PCs

The most common ways to connect Android devices to a PC are still the traditional ones — using a USB cable or Microsoft's built-in Phone Link app. These methods are easy to set up and are ideal for transferring files, viewing notifications, or syncing basic data between devices.

Using a USB Cable

Connecting your Android phone to a PC using a USB cable is one of the simplest and most reliable methods. It allows high-speed data transfer without needing an internet connection, and it works on virtually all Android and Windows devices. Here's how you can do it:

Step 1. Use a compatible USB cable (preferably the original one) to connect your Android phone to your PC.

Step 2. On your phone, a prompt will appear. Tap "Charging this device via USB", then choose "File Transfer" (MTP) from the list of USB options.

Step 3. On your PC, open "File Explorer". Your Android device will appear under "Devices and Drives."

Step 4. Click on the device to browse internal storage or SD card, then drag and drop files between devices.

📌 Tips & Common Issues:

Connection not showing? Swipe down your notification panel and manually select the USB mode.
Can't connect to pc? Try a different USB port or cable, especially if using a third-party charger.
Drivers not installed? Windows may need to install Android USB drivers automatically. If not, check the manufacturer's website.

Using the Microsoft Phone Link App

If you want to connect your Android phone to a PC wirelessly, the Microsoft Phone Link app provides a native solution that's great for syncing messages, calls, and media, especially useful for people who frequently switch between devices.

Before you start, make sure your PC is updated to Windows 10 (October 2018 update or later) or Windows 11, your Android device is running Android 7.0 or newer, and both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.

Step 1. On your Windows 10 or 11 PC, open or install the Phone Link app (preinstalled on most devices).

Step 2. On your Android phone, download the Link to Windows app from Google Play. Some phones (like Samsung Galaxy) may already have it built-in.

Step 3. Open both apps, then sign in with your Microsoft account or scan the QR code shown on your PC to pair the devices.

Step 4. Once paired, you can view and respond to texts, check notifications, view recent photos, and even make phone calls directly from your PC.

📌 Limits or Shortcomings:

It does not support full file explorer access (you can view recent photos, but not browse entire folders).
No support for remote control or screen mirroring, unless you're using select Samsung or Surface Duo devices with additional integration features.
Can't be used for large file transfers — for that, a great third-party app offers more flexibility. Please read on to explore.

Best Option: Use DeskIn for Seamless Android-PC Connection

While using a USB cable or Microsoft Phone Link can help you connect your Android to PC, both have their drawbacks. USB transfers require physical access and cables, while Phone Link has limited features and only works reliably on select devices.

If you're looking for more flexibility, speed, and functionality, a third-party solution like DeskIn is a much better choice. It is a powerful, cross-platform app that enables wireless remote control, file transfer, and screen sharing between Android phones and PCs. Whether you're working remotely, gaming, or simply trying to move files without limits, DeskIn provides a smooth and secure connection, even on weak networks like hotspots or public Wi-Fi.

📌 Explore More at DeskIn

Remote Control: Fully control your Android device or PC from another device, with support for touch gestures, keyboard input, and game controllers.
File Transfer: Transfer large files at speeds up to 12MB/s, with no restrictions on file type or size.
Privacy Protection: Includes privacy screen mode, device access management (blacklist/whitelist), and email verification for added security.
Cross-Platform Access: Connect across all major systems — Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS — and even use your tablet or phone as a second screen.
Extra Tools: Features like virtual screens, remote camera access, multi-screen expansion, and real-time screen mirroring make it ideal for power users, creators, and travelers.

All these sparkling features have made DeskIn the best remote software for Windows PC and mobile phones. Now, let's see how to connect Android to PC using DeskIn within easy-handling steps.

Step 1. Download and Install DeskIn

Go to the official DeskIn website on both your Android phone and your PC. Download the appropriate version for each device and complete the installation process. click here to download

Step 2. Create and Sign In to Your DeskIn Account

Open the DeskIn app on both devices and sign in using the same account. If you're new, register using your email address — you'll need to verify it for security.

Step 3. Link Devices and Choose Connection Mode

Once signed in, you'll see the device ID and the password of your Android device. Insert them on your PC, and once they are successfully connected, you can then explore the features under Connection:

Remote Control – Fully control your PC or Android remotely.
File Transfer – Send files quickly between devices.
Screen Sharing – Mirror your screen in real-time.

Step 4. Start the Connection

Click on the function you want to use, and follow the prompts to initiate the session. DeskIn will automatically establish a secure connection. Depending on your needs, you can enable extra features like virtual screen, privacy mode, or remote camera within the app settings.

Brief Comparison of Android to PC Connection Ways

Now that you've learned about DeskIn and its powerful features, let's take a moment to compare it with other traditional methods of connecting Android to PC. Below is a detailed table that outlines the pros and cons of each connection method, helping you make an informed choice based on your needs and preferences.

Method	Speed	Ease of Use	Security	File Limits	Extra Features
USB Cable	High (up to 5 Gbps)	Moderate (requires cable)	High (no internet required)	None (direct access)	Direct file access, reliable for large transfers
Microsoft Phone Link	Medium (dependent on Wi-Fi)	High (easy setup with Microsoft account)	High (Microsoft account security)	Yes (limited file types)	Call, SMS, media sync, notifications on PC
DeskIn	High (up to 12MB/s)	Very High (easy setup, no cables)	High (email verification, privacy mode)	None (unlimited size)	Remote control, 2nd screen, virtual screen, remote camera, cross-platform support, etc.

FAQs About Connecting Android Phone to PC/Computer

How do I fix an Android phone not connecting to a PC?

If your Android phone isn't connecting to your PC, ensure that your USB cable is working and that you have the correct drivers installed. Check if the USB mode on your phone is set to "File Transfer" (MTP), and try restarting both devices. If you're using a wireless connection, ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.

Can I use my Android phone as a second screen for my PC?

Yes, with DeskIn, you can easily use your Android phone as a second screen for your PC. This can help boost productivity by providing extra screen space for multitasking.

How can I transfer large files from Android to PC?

If you're transferring large files, DeskIn offers a fast and secure way to move files at speeds up to 12MB/s without file size restrictions. Alternatively, using a USB cable or Microsoft Phone Link may be slower and have file size limits.

Conclusion

There are several methods available to connect your Android phone to your PC, each catering to different needs. While USB cables and Microsoft Phone Link are great for basic tasks like file transfers and syncing messages, they have their limitations in terms of flexibility and advanced functionality.

For a seamless, all-in-one solution that offers full control, fast transfers, and cross-device productivity, DeskIn stands out as the best option. Whether you're working remotely, gaming, or managing files, DeskIn provides a smooth and powerful experience across all devices. Give it a try, unlock its range of features, and connect Android to PC to boost your work and play right away!

click here to download

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How to Enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10 [Best Guide]

How to Enable Remote Desktop Windows 10: Easy Guide & Error Fixes

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.

Set Up Remote Desktop Feature on Windows

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.

Enable Remote Desktop on Windows Firewall Settings

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.

Click here to download DeskIn

👀 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!

Click here to download DeskIn

How to Enable Remote Desktop on Windows 10 [Best Guide]

How to Enable Remote Desktop Windows 10: Easy Guide & Error Fixes

System Requirements to Allow Remote Desktop on Windows 10

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.