[Windows on MacOS via RDP] Using Windows from a Mac via Remote Desktop. #macos #windows #rdp #remote

windows-macos-via-rdp.md

Windows on MacOS via RDP

Created: 2017.10.09

I have been investigating using an iPad Pro Gen 1 as a high resolution second monitor, but it could also be used as a touchscreen controller for a small Windows computer such as the Kangaroo Pro.

This got me thinking about remote control of computers, and brought me back to RDP, a technology I hadn't used in years.

Pros

• Use existing Windows laptop
• Use a single stand / screen
• Easily switch between Windows and Mac via MacOS spaces: Control + <>
• Test Windows screen readers
• No lag on a local network
• The Macbook Air has a much nicer screen than the business-orientated Toshiba Portege

Cons

• Windows 7 is not touch aware, so it couldn't work with the iPad without extra software (but you could probably just use a mouse)
• Connection seems to drop fairly often - the mouse cursor moves but the click is not registered

Setup

Windows 7

1. Get the PC name and a list of users: cmd -> net users
2. Control Panel > System > Allow remote access to your computer
3. Allow connections only from computers running Remote Desktop with Network Level Authentication (more secure)
4. Select Users
5. Enter a name from (1), e.g. Administrator
6. Also take note of 'From this location' - this is the PC name

MacOS

1. Install the free Microsoft Remote Desktop app from the AppStore
2. New >
3. General
4. Connection Name: [Anything]
5. PC Name: The machine name or IP Address
6. Gateway: -
7. User name: A Windows user
8. Password: The Windows user's password (a password is required to use RDP)
9. Resolution: Native
10. Colors: True Color (24 bit)
11. Full screen mode: OS X native
12. Start session in fullscreen
13. Session
14. Sound: Play on device
15. Connect to admin session