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How to Connect to a Remote System on Windows and Mac

This guide offers a clear procedure to connect to a Windows server via Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). While the focus is on Windows, Mac users will find steps tailored for them, too. Please make sure you have Windows installed on your VPS. If you ordered a VPS with Linux installed, you can reinstall the OS at any time with Windows.

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For Windows users

Open Remote Desktop Connection: Press the Windows key on your keyboard, type Remote Desktop Connection in the search bar, and click on the app to open it. Remote Desktop (RDP) Alternatively, press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type mstsc, and press Enter to open the Remote Desktop Connection window. Remote Desktop (RDP) Enter the IP Address or Hostname: In the Remote Desktop Connection window, type the IP address or hostname of the remote system you want to connect to. Remote Desktop (RDP) Open Additional Settings: Click on the Show Options button to open advanced settings. Remote Desktop (RDP) Choose Authentication Preferences: In the opened menu, you can check the box to prompt for new login credentials every time you connect to the server. The username is set to Administrator by default. Remote Desktop (RDP) Authenticate: Click on the Connect button. You need to enter the server password, enter it, and check the box “Remember me”. Remote Desktop (RDP) Establish the Connection: After successful authentication, a prompt will appear confirming the connection to the server. Check the box to ensure the prompt doesn’t appear again, then click Yes to continue. Remote Desktop (RDP) Start the Connection Process: The process of connecting to the remote server begins. Remote Desktop (RDP) You should now be connected to the remote system and able to control it. Remote Desktop (RDP)

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For MacOS users

Install Microsoft “Windows App”: Download “Windows App” (former Remote Desktop) from the Mac App Store. Open Windows App: Launch the app after installation. Remote Desktop is now Windows App Add a New Connection:
  1. Click the + button to add a new connection.
  2. Enter the IP address of the remote system (PC name) and name your connection (Friendly Name)
  3. Credentials: pick Administrator
  4. Click “Add” to save the new connection
Remote Desktop (RDP) Double-Click the newly created connection (tile), Confirm the Certificate warning (Continue) Remote Desktop (RDP) Enter your password and Continue to connect. Remote Desktop (RDP) You might see another warning. It is related to keychain access on your Mac. You can safely ignore it and click Continue to connect. Remote Desktop (RDP) Once you are connected, you’ll see your Windows Desktop and you can continue with the initial configuration or usage. Remote Desktop (RDP)