What is the function of Remote Desktop Connection?

Definition

remote desktop

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Remote desktop is a program or an operating system feature that allows a user to connect to a computer in another location, see that computer's desktop and interact with it as if it were local.

People use remote desktop access capabilities to do a variety of things, including the following:

Access a workplace computer from home or when traveling.
Access a home computer from other locations.
Fix a computer problem.
Perform administrative tasks.
Demonstrate something, such as a process or a software application

Quiz: Test your enterprise desktop management know-how

Managing desktops isn't always easy. See how prepared you are with this quiz on key terms such as disk space analysis, remote desktop management and more.

Remote desktop protocols

A remote desktop connection relies upon any of a number of protocols, including Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), virtual network computing (VNC), NX technology and Independent Computing Architecture (ICA).

The basics of Remote Desktop Services

Remote desktop access software

Remote desktop access software exists for most operating systems and platforms, including hand-held computing devices. Microsoft and Apple each have a product called "Remote Desktop." Other remote desktop products include Citrix XenApp, CrossLoop, Jaadu (for theiPhoneand iPod Touch), GoToMyPC, pcAnywhere and Chicken of the VNC.

This was last updated in October 2016

Continue Reading About remote desktop

The Remote Desktop Control website provides an overview, screenshots and a FAQ list

Learn how to share your remote desktop session

Brien Posey wrote this article about Windows Remote Desktop troubleshooting

Wikipedia provides a comparison table for remote desktop software

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