The Ultimate Guide: How to Connect Remote Desktop (RDP) from a MAC to a Windows Computer

To remotely connect to a Windows computer from a Mac using Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), you can follow these steps:

1. Enable Remote Desktop on the Windows PC:

   On the Windows computer, you want to connect to, you need to enable Remote Desktop. Here’s how to do it:

   • Right-click on the “This PC” or “My Computer” icon on your desktop or in File Explorer and select “Properties.”
   • Click on “Remote settings” on the left sidebar.
   • Under the “Remote Desktop” section, select “Allow remote connections to this computer.” If you’re using Windows 10 or later, you might need to click the “Advanced settings” link to configure additional settings.
2. Note the Windows PC’s IP Address:

   You’ll need the IP address or hostname of the Windows computer you want to connect to. You can find this information in the Windows settings or by running the “ipconfig” command in the Windows Command Prompt.

3. Install Microsoft Remote Desktop for Mac:

   If you don’t have it already, download and install the “Microsoft Remote Desktop” app from the Mac App Store. This app allows you to connect to Windows PCs using RDP.

   

4. Configure Microsoft Remote Desktop:
   • Open the Microsoft Remote Desktop app.
   • 
   • Click the “+” icon to add a new connection.
   • In the “PC Name” field, enter the IP address or hostname of the Windows computer you want to connect to.
   • Optionally, you can give the connection a name for easier reference.
   • Click “Add.”
5. Adjust Connection Settings (Optional):

   You can customize the connection settings by clicking on the new connection you created and modifying options like display resolution, user account, and more.

6. Connect to the Windows PC:
   • Select the connection you just created in the Microsoft Remote Desktop app.
   • Click the “Start” button to initiate the connection.
   • You’ll be prompted to enter the username and password for the Windows computer. Make sure you have the appropriate login credentials.
   • After entering the credentials, click “Continue” or “Connect.”

You should now be connected to the Windows computer from your Mac using RDP. You can use your Windows computer as if you were physically present at its location. Remember to log out or disconnect from the remote session when you’re done to ensure security and privacy.

Please note that for this method to work, the Windows edition you’re connecting to must be a Pro, Enterprise, or Education version, as Home editions of Windows do not support incoming RDP connections.