Detailed Tutorial: How to Open RDP File on Mac

How do I open a RDP file on Mac?

“How can I open an RDP file on my Mac? Is the procedure the same for Mac and Windows users?”

-Question from Windows Server Forum

Can you open an RDP file on a Mac? Of course, you can. For Mac users, Microsoft Remote Desktop is a quite useful tool to achieve remote access. Although Quick Assist doesn’t support MacOS, Microsoft Remote Desktop can be perfectly compatible with Mac.

How to open RDP file on Mac

This part will guide you through how to set up RDP on Mac and how to open RDP file on Mac to achieve remote access.

Before you begin, you should configure the Windows PC to which you intend to connect to accept remote connections. What you must do is as follows:

Step 1. Visit the Apple iTunes Store to download the Microsoft Remote Desktop application. Click View in Mac App Store. Then download it step by step. After that, open it.

Step 2. Opening the app should look like the following.

Step 3. Click the New button at the top left of the Microsoft Remote Desktop screen. You’ll be prompted to fill in quite a few fields, including the PC name, IP address, and computer password.

Step 4. When you are finished configuring your remote desktop, close the dialog box and your new remote desktop will be added. To start a session with that desktop, simply click the RDP file and then click Start. You’re also able to transfer files using RDP on Mac.

Follow the above simple steps, you can learn how to run RDP file on Mac with ease.

Bonus tip: Best RDP alternative for Mac

While Microsoft Remote Desktop is a solid option for connecting to Windows PCs from a Mac, other great alternatives may offer additional features, better performance, or easier setup for remote desktop access on macOS.

If you're looking for an RDP alternative that’s simple, secure, and cross-platform compatible, AnyViewer is an excellent remote access software choice for Mac users. Unlike Microsoft Remote Desktop, which requires manual setup and relies on specific configurations, AnyViewer is designed to provide a hassle-free remote access experience. Whether you need to connect to a Windows, Mac, or even an Android device, AnyViewer offers seamless control with just a few clicks.

Here’s why AnyViewer stands out as the best RDP alternative for Mac:

No Need for Complex Configurations: RDP often requires you to configure network settings, such as port forwarding, which can be a hassle for users unfamiliar with networking. AnyViewer eliminates this need with its easy setup and automatic configuration.

Cross-Platform Access: RDP only allows Mac-to-Windows connections, whereas AnyViewer supports both Mac-to-Windows and Windows-to-Mac remote access.

Free Version with Full Functionality: While RDP itself is free, it offers limited features. AnyViewer provides its full set of features, including text chat, high-definition resolution, and multiple device access, at no cost.

To remotely access Windows from Mac, follow the steps below:

Step 1. Start by downloading AnyViewer on your Mac. After installing, sign in or register.

Step 2. On your Windows PC, download and log in to AnyViewer as well.

Step 3. After logging into both devices, go to the "Device" tab on your Mac. Your Windows PC should appear in the list. Click on it and select "One-click control." You'll now have remote desktop access to your Windows PC from your Mac.

Notes:✎...

You can also upgrade your account to a Professional or Enterprise plan. What can a professional or enterprise plan brings to you:

Add more users for unattended remote access.

Control unlimited Windows computers from your Mac simultaneously.

Install AnyViewer on unlimited remote devices in a domain.

Create device groups for easier management of large numbers of devices.

Set roles and permissions to control user access.

The bottom line

In conclusion, now you know how to open an RDP file on Mac using Microsoft Remote Desktop, which works well but needs some setup. For an easier option, AnyViewer is a great alternative. It offers simple, hassle-free remote access without complex configurations. Whether you’re connecting to a Windows PC or another device, AnyViewer makes it easy and secure.