Connect to Windows Remote Desktop from iPhone & iPad - Guide
Remotely Accessing Windows from Your iPad or iPhone
Directly running Windows applications on an iPad or iPhone is not possible. However, if you possess a Pro or Enterprise version of Windows, you can utilize Windows Remote Desktop to connect to your PC remotely. The following instructions detail the setup process.
Understanding Remote Access Options
Numerous methods exist for remotely accessing your computer from an iOS device. A comprehensive overview of these options can be found elsewhere. While Remote Desktop might require a slightly more involved initial configuration compared to alternatives like TeamViewer, it delivers a remarkably fluid user experience.
This makes it a particularly valuable solution for users heavily invested in the Windows ecosystem. We will focus on leveraging the Remote Desktop server integrated within Windows Pro and Enterprise editions, alongside the Microsoft Remote Desktop client for iOS 8 and later.
Alternative Solutions for Remote Access
If Remote Desktop is not a viable option for your setup, alternative solutions are available. For instances where you are providing one-time troubleshooting assistance, and ongoing access isn't required – or if the target computer runs Windows Home – Windows 10's Quick Assist feature (or Remote Assistance in older Windows versions) can be employed.
Furthermore, if a more comprehensive remote access program is needed, supporting all Windows editions and other operating systems, exploring options like TeamViewer and other remote support tools is recommended.
Setting Up Remote Desktop on iOS
Now, let's proceed with the configuration of Remote Desktop on your iOS device.
The process involves enabling Remote Desktop on your Windows PC and then configuring the Microsoft Remote Desktop app on your iPad or iPhone to connect.
Preparing Your Windows PC for Remote Desktop Access
Related: Enabling Remote Desktop in Windows 10
Should you choose to utilize Windows Remote Desktop, the initial step involves configuring it on the computer you intend to access remotely. It’s important to note that this functionality requires Windows Professional, Business, or Enterprise editions. While Home and other versions can function as a Remote Desktop client, they cannot operate as a host server.
A comprehensive guide detailing how to activate Remote Desktop across various Windows versions is available. However, the following provides a concise overview.
Begin by opening the System Properties window. The access method varies slightly depending on your Windows version. In Windows 8 or 10, initiate a search from the Start menu for "Allow remote connections to this computer." For Windows 7, right-click "Computer" on the Start menu and select "Properties." Regardless of the version, the System Properties dialog will maintain a consistent appearance.
Navigate to the "Remote" tab within this dialog and select the option "Allow remote connections to this computer."
Related: Accessing Windows Remote Desktop via the Internet
With Remote Desktop enabled, you should be capable of establishing a remote connection to the computer from any device on your local network, following the instructions provided in the subsequent section.
However, enabling remote access over the Internet introduces additional complexity. A secure approach involves establishing a VPN connection. Alternatively, you can configure your router to forward Remote Desktop requests directly to the target PC. The optimal method depends on your specific needs, and a detailed guide is available to assist you through the process. Once configured, you can proceed to the next stage.
Setting Up Microsoft Remote Desktop on Your iOS Device
Having configured Microsoft Remote Desktop on the PC you intend to access, the next step involves preparing your iOS device for connection. Begin by downloading and installing the Microsoft Remote Desktop application. Once the installation is complete, launch the application.
Upon initial launch, you’ll encounter a screen prompting you to add a new connection. Initiate this process by selecting the "Add" button located in the top right corner.
To connect to a PC, choose the "Desktop" option. Organizations providing remote access to work PCs may alternatively utilize "Remote Resources" or "Azure RemoteApp," depending on their specific configuration.
When establishing a connection to a desktop PC, you can input either the PC’s full name or its IP address. For connections within a local network, either method is viable. However, connecting over the Internet necessitates the use of the public IP address assigned to your local network. Enter the desired name or IP address and then confirm your selection by tapping "Done."
You have the option to tap "User Account" and pre-enter your Windows username and password, eliminating the need for repeated entry during each connection. Alternatively, for enhanced security, you can choose to enter your credentials each time you connect, leaving this option untouched.
Further configuration is available by selecting "Additional Options."
The "Additional Options" screen allows customization of several settings:
- Assign a user-friendly name, particularly useful when connecting via an IP address or a PC name that is difficult to recall. This name is solely for identification within the Remote Desktop application.
- For complex networks with multiple subnets, configure a gateway device to manage all Remote Desktop requests. You will require the gateway’s IP address.
- Control the playback of PC sounds, directing them to your iOS device, the PC itself, or disabling them entirely during remote sessions.
- If the PC has swapped mouse buttons (common for left-handed users), the "Swap Mouse Buttons" toggle ensures Remote Desktop respects this setting.
- The "Admin Mode" option is exclusively for administrators accessing a Windows server functioning as a terminal server; otherwise, leave it disabled.
Once you have adjusted the desired options, tap "Desktop" and then "Save" to finalize and store your new connection.
The newly created connection will appear in the main "Remote Desktop" window. Initially, it will display a blank icon. After a successful connection, a thumbnail image from the last session will be shown. Simply tap the connection to initiate it.
Provided Remote Desktop is correctly configured on your PC, the connection should establish immediately. If a warning appears indicating the PC is not verified, this is generally harmless. Your desktop PC may not be configured to provide proper authentication. Proceed by tapping "Accept" if you recognize the connection. You can also select "Don't ask me again for connections to this computer" to suppress future prompts.
Upon successful connection, you’ll have access to your PC’s desktop, functioning similarly to direct use. A menu bar at the top of the screen provides several options. The "Zoom" button on the left allows for magnification of the screen content.
The "Keyboard" button on the right activates an on-screen keyboard. The standard iOS or third-party keyboards are unavailable during Remote Desktop sessions; instead, the Remote Desktop keyboard is used. Note that the keyboard does not automatically appear; you must tap the button to display it and again to hide it.
Tapping the central button on the menu reveals further Remote Desktop controls. On the left, you can switch between established connections or add new ones. On the right, the "Home" button returns you to the Remote Desktop app’s main screen without terminating the remote session. The "End Session" button closes the connection. Finally, the "Mouse Pointer" button toggles between touch-based interaction and the use of a virtual mouse pointer.
This concludes the process of establishing a Remote Desktop connection from your iOS device. While initial setup can be complex, particularly for Internet-based connections, utilizing the Remote Desktop app on iOS to control your PC is generally a straightforward experience.
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