Allowing remote access to your computer involves setting up remote desktop software, configuring permissions, connecting from another device, and troubleshooting issues if they arise. With the proper prerequisites and steps completed, you can securely access one PC from a different location over the Internet.
This article outlines requirements like remote desktop applications on both computers and stable internet connectivity. Instructions are provided for enabling built-in Windows Remote Desktop and third-party tools like Chrome Remote Desktop. Steps for remotely connecting including IP addresses, account credentials, and access PINs are explained. Troubleshooting guidance addresses network problems, permissions, and firewalls.
Additional sections answer whether offline computers can be accessed remotely, and methods for securely connecting without passwords through SSH, temporary codes, Wake-on-LAN, and more. By following the end-to-end information presented, you can successfully set up and use a remote desktop to control one computer from another over the internet.
I. Prerequisites
The computer you want to access remotely must have a stable broadband internet connection, either via Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Sufficient upload and download speeds are required for responsive control, ideally at least 10 Mbps. Connectivity should be always on, not dropped or offline for extended periods.
You also need remote desktop software installed on both the remote and local computers. Options like Windows Remote Desktop, VNC, TeamViewer, Chrome Remote Desktop, AnyDesk, and Splashtop allow remote control across the internet. They work by mirroring the remote screen, inputs, and audio to the local client.
II. Instructions
For Windows Remote Desktop built into Windows, access Settings > System > Remote Desktop and toggle the feature On. Under Remote Desktop Users, add accounts that require remote access and click OK. This enables inbound RDP connections to the Windows machine.
For Chrome Remote Desktop, install the extension on the remote computer through the Chrome Web Store. Please open it and click Get Started, then Enable Remote Connections. Add a name for the PC and make a note of the generated PIN. This will allow access through the website and Android/iOS apps.
III. Connecting Remotely
To connect, open the remote desktop client on your local computer and input the remote computer’s IP address or name. For Windows RDP, sign in with the username/password of an authorized Remote Desktop User account when prompted. For Chrome Remote Desktop, input the unique PIN to authenticate. The connection will initialize, providing remote control of the distant target computer.
IV. Troubleshooting
If unable to connect, confirm both PCs have active internet and the remote software is running with proper config. On Windows check the Remote Desktop service status. Review account settings to ensure permissions are granted for the user attempting to connect. Use command prompt utilities like “ping” and “ipconfig” to verify network connectivity.
Try disabling firewalls temporarily. Reboot both computers and router if issues persist. Change the remote PC’s name for easier direct access. Inspect ISP modem levels and call support if needed. Confirm proper port forwarding is configured on the router to allow inbound remote desktop traffic.
Can I remotely access my computer when it’s off?
Generally, it is not possible to remotely access a computer if it is completely powered off, since the operating system and remote access services will not be running. However, there are a couple of potential solutions:
- Use Wake-on-LAN to remotely power on the computer and then connect. This requires enabled hardware support and correctly configured BIOS and network settings.
- Use out-of-band management tools like Intel vPro or HP iLO that run independently of the OS using integrated hardware chips. These allow control of BIOS and rebooting over the network.
- Set up dynamic DNS and port forwarding to be able to remotely access a computer in Sleep or Hibernate low-power states where network capabilities are still active.
But fully remote controlling an off computer is not feasible without a dedicated on-board management system or taking steps to allow waking the machine over the LAN.
How can I access my computer remotely without a password?
To access a computer remotely without using a password:
- Set up SSH key-based authentication using a public and private key pair instead of a password. The private key is stored locally while the public key goes on the remote server.
- Use integrated tools like Windows Remote Assistance that generate single-use temporary passwords to allow one-time access.
- Enable Remote Login under System Preferences on Macs to permit remote management with Apple ID credentials instead of a local password.
- Utilize remote support services like TeamViewer that provide temporary passwords and session codes, avoiding the need to disclose your actual login credentials.
- Set up a VPN connection that secures tunnels into your network, allowing passwordless remote access within the encrypted tunnel.
- Use Wake-on-LAN to boot the computer and then log in locally using tools like VNC once powered on.
However, disabling password requirements completely is not recommended for security reasons. Multi-factor authentication is still advised to prevent unauthorized access.