How to setup multiple remote desktop connections (rdp) within a network (usb)
By jstankevicz
Remote desktop or RDP is Microsoft Windows native way to provide remote access to a computer or server. By default Windows allows one RDP connection to be setup and assigns a specific port (3389) for this remote desktop connection. But what if you want to access multiple computers within a network?
The trick to setting up multiple RDP possibilities within a single network involves the use of multiple ports. The key to allowing multiple remote desktop connections to more than one PC in a network lies in the use of a router with port forwarding capabilities. This technique works well if you have full control of the equipment on a
network as it does require some setup on the router and the target PCs. This article will show you how it is done.
Video 1 How to Use Remote Desktop Connection
Remote Desktop Terms
Here are some terms used in this article about the Microsoft remote desktop capability and what they refer to here:
RDP, is short for Remote Desktop Protocol, which is a native Microsoft service for remote connection of two Windows based PCs.
RDP Server, is the activated RDP service on the target or host PC. The host PC is the PC that is being controlled remotely. This article talks about setup to allow multiple PCs to act as a Remote Desktop server or host.
RDP Client, refers to the PC that is using the RDP service to connect to and control a RDP server PC. The RDP client is also known as the controlling PC.
RDP Connection, refers to a connection between a RDP client (controlling PC) and a RDP server (host PC).
Netgear Video: Setup Remote Desktop Access on your XP or Vista PC
Overview of the concept and steps for multiple Remote Desktop Connections
The process to setting up multiple remote desktop connection capability is just an extension of the basic RDP process. A basic knowledge of networking and RDP function is assumed. I've included three videos that cover the use of RDP and basic setup.
1) Define a unique IP and unique port number for each PC (e.g.3390, 3391,
3392, 3393, etc) one for each
PC.
2) Setup each desired target or host PC for RDP:
- Activate the RDP service.
- Set a fixed IP for the PC.
- Adjust PC firewall settings to open the port assigned to this PC (e.g. 3390)
- Give permission to the user ID that will be connecting.
3) Setup port forwarding on the router to assign the unique port to the unique IP address for each PC to be accessed remotely.
Setting up the router to forward ports to the PCs
You need a router that allows you to configure port forwarding.
We are using the Cisco VPN Router, RV082, which is a 10/100 8 port VPN Router for this demonstration.
Select "Setup" and then select "Forwarding".
This brings us to the Forwarding setup page or screen.
Select "Service Management".
The defult port that is setup to forward an RDP connection is 3389.
If you only require one RDP port, then go back to the Forwarding page.
If you need to use RDP to connect to another PC, then you need to define another port service. Select "Add New".
In "Service Management", define a new service name, in this case, RDP Demo.
Select TCP, and enter the unique port number twice, in this case 3393.
Click "Add to List".
Click "Save Setting".
Now we need to assign this service to an internal IP.
Use the drop down window in the Forwarding screen, and select the new service you just created.
Enter the unique IP address; note that the router fills in everything but the last three numbers.
Click the Enable box.
Click "Add to list".
Don't forget to click on "Save Settings".
This completes the router setup for a single new RDP port.
Repeat this process for each PC to be accessed via RDP.
Video - How to setup and use Remote Desktops in Vista
Other articles on remote access, Internet safety, and PC support that may be useful
RDP is only one way to connect remotely. There are several services to give you remote access to your home PC or the PC of a friend or family member to allow you to remotely control or support that PC.
VPN, or virtual private network, is another approach for remote access. VPN is typically used in a business setting to allow remote office or remote employee access to the main office network.
Organizations sometimes find themselves with a need to manage or filter Internet access. Internet filtering is most commonly found in the home setting, where parents need to assure their child's safety on the Internet.
Free PC tech support, free online scans and speeding up your PC may be helpful articles.
Have you used Windows RDP for remote access?
This is what I have looked for long time. Thanks for sharing. really useful.
This is what I need so far. as I did manually before, spending more time nonsense. Thanks
thanks jstankevicz, how i can remote them by network dekstop connection, or Command Prompt
@ Shawn Scarborough, RDP is a great IT resource.
@ Gaurav, I don't have experience with the iMac, but some articles I read indicated that this will work for you.
@ billyaustindillon, the XP OS was one that Microsoft got right, very stable. Vist not so much; but I'm pleased with Windows 7, so far.
Thanks all, for stoppping by and commenting.
i want to use remote desktop from my windows 7 laptop to my iMac desktop . will this method work ??
Nice Hub! I'm sure this will help a lot of people. I work in a large enterprise environment and use RDP to access systems all over the world. RDP is an indispensable tool for me.
Very helpful advice - I like Melinda am still an XP fan with it's less intrusive plane. It is amazing how far along networking has come isn't it. I like the security features here also.
@ TroyM, sounds like you want your browser to open several sites, each time you start it. I do this with Firefox and open HubPages, Google Absence, Amazon affiliate sites at my profile or account page. Just open the site pages you want in different Tabs. Then click on Tools, then Options, then click Use Current Page (s) as your Home Page. If that's not it, shoot me an Email.
As with most computer system operations, there is more than one way to get remote access to multiple PCs in a local area network. Glad this information is helpful @ save my system and @DeAd Dolls Inc.
...All I can say is very very nice hub. Loved it, the information contained here is perfect for anyone to read and for anyone to set up. Amazing Job.
-DD
Thanks for sharing this information with us. It is necessary to know all the TCP/ IP terms with great extent to know the basics of the networking and its terms.
GOod instructions! Now how about setting up multiple home pages so you can click once, and have multiple Windows open with all your main places to log in that you need that day....?
@ msorensson, thanks for the visit and nice thoughts.
@ Pcunix, the average home user might not need this, but is useful in small business environment. All the heavy lifting is done in the router. No terminal server license costs, and no server setup or management required. I used it in an association with a couple of workgroup servers and PCs that needed remote access. Very easy to setup and manage.
I'm not sure why a home user would need multiple RDP connections, but I suppose someone might. In the business world, this need is more usually met by Terminal Server. Same idea, still RDP, but one port to listen on. The server spawns off connections as they are received.
For business, Terminal Server provides much more control - though of course that comes with additional licensing costs.
Oh dear..I am old fashioned and still use xp.
However the wizard had been very helpful.
I do not need it now, but my computer still thinks so so I have to deal with the SQL 2005 sever error every time. Thanks though, I always learn something from you.
HubPage Articles on networking, that might be of interest...
Devices use to connect network/ internetworking device
Setting Up a Wireless Network In a Multi-story Home
How to Set Up a Network Connection on a Wii
James 15 months ago
This hub is very helpful, thanks for sharing. Thumbs up :)