How to Connect to Windows Server via RDP

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a Microsoft protocol that allows you to connect to a Windows server remotely and work with it as if you were sitting directly in front of it. This guide will show you how to connect to your Hiddence Windows server via RDP from different operating systems.

What you'll need

• Windows server IP address
• RDP port (usually 3389)
• Administrator username and password
• RDP client installed on your computer

Connecting from Windows

Windows has a built-in Remote Desktop client. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Remote Desktop Connection

• Press Win + R to open Run dialog
• Type 'mstsc' and press Enter
• Or search for 'Remote Desktop Connection' in Start menu

Step 2: Enter Connection Details

In the Remote Desktop Connection window, enter your server's IP address:

Your server IP: 192.168.1.100
Click 'Connect' button

Connecting from macOS

For macOS, you need to install Microsoft Remote Desktop from the App Store:

• Open App Store on your Mac
• Search for 'Microsoft Remote Desktop'
• Install the application
• Open Microsoft Remote Desktop
• Click 'Add PC' and enter your server IP address
• Enter your username and password when prompted

Connecting from Linux

For Linux, install Remmina or use rdesktop. Here's how to use Remmina:

sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install remmina remmina-plugin-rdp
# Then open Remmina and create new RDP connection

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• If connection fails, check Windows Firewall settings on the server
• Ensure RDP service is running: net start TermService
• Verify RDP is enabled: System Properties > Remote > Enable Remote Desktop
• Check if port 3389 is open in firewall
• Try connecting with administrator credentials

Security Best Practices

• Change default RDP port (3389) to a custom port for better security
• Use strong passwords or enable Network Level Authentication (NLA)
• Restrict RDP access to specific IP addresses via firewall
• Consider using VPN for additional security layer
• Regularly update Windows Server to get security patches

If you encounter connection issues, contact our support team through the control panel.