How do I Remote Desktop from Mac to Windows?

Microsoft Remote Desktop is a versatile tool, enabling users to access their computers remotely from any location. With support for both Windows and Mac systems, it facilitates seamless control over work and files, ensuring productivity even when away from the desk.

How to Remote Desktop from Mac to Windows

Establishing Remote Desktop from Mac to Windows is fairly simple. Remote Desktop Connection is a native feature in Windows, while Mac users must manually download Remote Desktop. To begin, ensure both your Mac and Windows PC are linked to the same network, like your home Wi-Fi network. Alternatively, if they're on separate networks, configure port forwarding on your router to direct all incoming Remote Desktop traffic to your computer. Below, you'll find detailed instructions to assist you through the setup process.

Part 1. Set up Remote Desktop on Windows PC

Setting up Remote Desktop on Windows PC involves a few steps to ensure a smooth connection. Follow these instructions to get started:

• Enable Remote Desktop on Windows PC

Step 1. Go to: Settings > System > Remote Desktop.

Step 2. Switch on the Enable Remote Desktop option, then click Confirm.

• Allow remote connections to this computer

Step 1. Choose Control Panel > System and Security > System. Under the "System" section, click on Remote settings.

Step 2. Tick the box next to "Allow remote connections to this computer" and then click OK.

• Note down your Windows computer's IP address or hostname

Step 1. Press Win + R on the host computer to open the Run dialog box. Enter "cmd" and click OK.

Step 2. In the Command Prompt, type "ipconfig" and note down the IPv4 Address, which will be used for Remote Desktop.

Step 3. To find the PC name for Remote Desktop, type "query user" in the Command Prompt. Your PC name will be displayed.

• Configure firewall settings on your Windows

Step 1. On the host computer, go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.

Step 2. Click on "Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall" in the left navigation.

Step 3. Check the box next to "Remote Desktop" and then click OK.

Part 2. Connect to a Windows Computer from Mac

After the Microsoft Remote Desktop is properly configured on Windows, the following is how to remote desktop from Mac to Windows:

Step 1. Obtain the Microsoft Remote Desktop program for your Mac. Ensure you have a locally installed RDP client. If not, it's recommended to download the Microsoft Remote Desktop App from the Mac App Store.

Step 2. Launch Microsoft Remote Desktop and press the "+" button. Select "Desktop" to initiate a new connection.

Step 3. Input connection details. Assign a name to the connection in the "Friendly name" field. Specify the fully qualified domain name of the Windows computer you want to connect to via RDP. Press "Add" to incorporate the desktop connection.

Step 4. Double-click on the connection to establish the connection.

Step 5. You'll be prompted to enter your username and password. Input your MCECS username as "cecs\username", including the "cecs" prefix. Use your MCECS username and password for CAT-managed computers.

Step 6. Occasionally, you might receive a warning regarding the server certificate, which is due to certain internal configurations. Click OK to acknowledge it. The Windows desktop will then appear.

Note: Microsoft Remote Desktop only supports remote access from Mac to Windows. If you wish to remote desktop from Windows to Mac, it's recommended to opt for third-party remote desktop software such as AnyViewer.

Bonus tip: Best free Remote Desktop alternative for Mac 

For Mac users, finding the right remote desktop solution can be tricky, especially when looking for a reliable and free alternative to Microsoft's Remote Desktop. Enter AnyViewer, a powerful and versatile remote desktop software that stands out as an excellent free alternative to Microsoft Remote Desktop for Mac users.

Advantages of AnyViewer over Microsoft Remote Desktop

While Microsoft Remote Desktop is a solid option for Windows users, it has limitations for Mac users. Here’s how AnyViewer outperforms it:

• No Need for Complex Configurations: Microsoft Remote Desktop 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: Microsoft Remote Desktop only allows Mac-to-Windows connections, whereas AnyViewer supports both Mac-to-Windows and Windows-to-Mac remote access.
• More Flexible: AnyViewer works across a variety of platforms (Mac, Windows, Android, iOS), giving you more flexibility than Microsoft Remote Desktop, which is limited to Windows environments.
• Free Version with Full Functionality: While Microsoft Remote Desktop itself is free, it often requires additional software or services (like VPNs or licensing costs) to work in certain scenarios. AnyViewer provides its full set of features, including text chat, high-definition resolution, and multiple device access, at no cost.

Steps to remotely access Windows from Mac

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.

★Tips: Upgrading to a Professional or Enterprise account offers several benefits, including:

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, setting up Remote Desktop from Mac to Windows is relatively straightforward, with Microsoft Remote Desktop serving as the primary tool for this connection. However, for a more seamless and user-friendly experience, AnyViewer is an excellent alternative. It eliminates the need for complex configurations, supports cross-platform access, and offers full functionality for free. Whether you're working from home or need remote access while on the go, AnyViewer provides a flexible and efficient solution for Mac users connecting to Windows PCs.