Configure Remote Desktop from a MacOSX Device

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) allows you to connect to and control a Windows computer from another device, including your macOS machine. This is incredibly useful for accessing files, running Windows-specific applications, or providing remote support. This article will guide you through the steps to establish a Remote Desktop connection from your Mac to a Windows PC.

Part 1: Download and Install Windows App for Mac

The official and most reliable way to connect to a Windows PC from your Mac is by using the Windows App.

1. Download the App: In the App Store search bar, type "Microsoft Remote Desktop" or "Windows App" and press Enter. Locate the "Windows App" by Microsoft Corporation and click the "Get" or "Download" button. It's a free application.
2. Install the App: Once downloaded, the app will automatically install. You can then open it from your Applications folder or Launchpad.

Part 2: Add Your Windows PC as a New Connection

Now that you have the client installed, you'll configure it to connect to your Windows PC.

1. Open Microsoft Remote Desktop: Launch the application from your Applications folder.
2. Add a New PC:
   • In the "Connection Center" (the main window of the app), click the "+" button at the top, and then select "Add PC".
3. Enter PC Name:
   • In the "PC name" field, enter the hostname of your Windows PC - see How to Find Your Computer Name in Windows 11
4. Add a User Account (Optional, but Recommended):
   • To streamline future connections, you can add the credentials for the Windows user account you'll be using. Click on "User account" and select "Add User Account...".
   • Enter your ULID and Password.
   • Give it a "Friendly name" if you wish, then click Add.
5. Configure Friendly Name (Optional):
   • You can give this connection a "Friendly name" (e.g., "Work PC,") so it's easier to identify in your list of connections.
6. Customize Connection Preferences (Optional):
   • Before adding, you can click on the "Show more..." option to access additional settings:
     • Display: Adjust resolution, color quality, and full-screen mode.
     • Devices & Audio: Configure audio playback (on your Mac or the remote PC) and allow microphone access.
     • Folders: Share folders from your Mac with the remote Windows PC.
     • Redirection: Configure access to local printers, smart cards, etc.
     • Gateway: If your organization uses a Remote Desktop Gateway, you'd configure it here.
   • Tailor these settings based on your network speed and specific needs.
7. Add the Connection: Click the "Add" button. Your new connection will appear in the Connection Center.

Part 3: Connect to Your Windows PC

With the connection configured, you're ready to initiate the Remote Desktop session.

1. Start the Connection:
   • In the Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection Center, double-click on the connection you just created.
2. Enter Credentials (if not saved):
   • If you didn't save your user credentials earlier, you'll be prompted to enter your ULID and password for the Windows PC.
3. Certificate Warning (Optional):
   • You might see a warning about an unverified certificate. This is common, especially for home users. You can check "Don't ask me again for connections to this computer" and click "Continue" to proceed.
4. Remote Desktop Session:
   • After a few moments, the full desktop of your Windows PC will appear on your Mac screen. You can now interact with it as if you were sitting directly in front of it.

Part 4: Managing Your Remote Desktop Session

• Full Screen Mode: The Microsoft Remote Desktop client often defaults to full-screen. To exit full-screen mode, move your mouse cursor to the very top of your Mac's screen to reveal the macOS menu bar. Then, click on the green full-screen button in the top-left corner of the Remote Desktop window, or go to Window > Exit Full Screen.
• Disconnecting: To properly end your remote session, you can either:
  • Click on the "Windows App" menu in the macOS menu bar and choose "Quit Windows App".
  • Go to the Start Menu on the remote Windows PC, click on your user icon, and select "Sign out".
• Editing Connections: In the Connection Center, right-click (or Control-click) on a saved connection to access options like "Edit," "Duplicate," or "Remove."

By following these steps, you can reliably connect to your Windows PC from your macOS device, enabling seamless remote access for your work or personal needs. Remember to always prioritize strong passwords and be cautious when configuring network settings for external access.