Tutorial: How to Remote Desktop via Proxy Server

Why is using a proxy server essential while using Remote Desktop?

Smaller companies typically permit all outgoing traffic, but many mid-sized to large enterprises now filter outbound traffic, including RDP connections. They often require these connections to pass through a proxy server. Consequently, clients can no longer directly connect to Terminal Servers using the Microsoft Remote Desktop client or similar tools.

In these organizations, a specific proxy server must be installed. Most web browsers and certain applications have configurations where a proxy server can be specified, allowing users to access internet services provided by these browsers and applications.

How to Remote Desktop via proxy server

The issue stems from the standard Microsoft Remote Desktop client not supporting web proxy server settings. To address this, we can utilize the Remote Desktop Gateway server feature found in newer versions of the Remote Desktop client. Below are the detailed steps to Remote Desktop via proxy server.

Infrastructures needed to use a proxy server for Remote Desktop

The infrastructure requires the following servers:

• Remote Desktop Session Host and Web Access Server: This server has the Remote Desktop Services Role installed along with the Remote Desktop Session Host and Remote Desktop Web Access Role Services. It serves as the main Remote Desktop Server where clients will connect to run remote desktops and published applications.
• Remote Desktop Gateway and Web Access Server: This server also has the Remote Desktop Services Role installed, along with the Remote Desktop Gateway and Remote Desktop Web Access Role Services. It acts as the landing page for users, who will connect via Internet Explorer. Through the server's Remote Desktop Web Access portal, users can log in and access the published applications they are permitted to use. One of the applications available is the Remote Desktop Client Active X version.
• Remote Desktop Connection Broker Server: This server has the Remote Desktop Services Role installed along with the Remote Desktop Connection Broker Role Services. It is used to configure the source.

Setups needed for the Web Access Server and Remote Desktop Session Host

Configuring the Remote Desktop Session Host and Web Access Server involves the following steps:

Step 1. Install the application you want to publish on the server.

Step 2. Use the RemoteApp Manager to publish the installed application.

Step 3. Ensure the RD Gateway Settings are correctly configured. This step is crucial for enabling Remote Desktop connections through a proxy server.

Step 4. Repeat these steps on all RD Session Host servers.

Setups needed for the Remote Desktop Gateway

In RD Gateway Manager, the following configurations are managed:

• SSL Certificate: Purchase a valid SSL certificate (or create a self-signed one) and install it on the Remote Desktop Gateway.
• Connection Authorization Policies: Determine which users or groups are allowed to access the Remote Desktop Gateway. Using groups is recommended for better management.

• Resource Authorization Policies: Specify which network resources can be accessed by which users or groups.

• Remote Desktop Web Access Configuration: Configure the source of the Remote App Programs. This can be the name of individual Remote Desktop Session Host Servers, the name of a Remote Desktop Session Host Farm, or, if using a Remote Desktop Session Broker for load balancing, specify the server with the Session Broker role.

Requirements for the Remote Desktop Connection Broker configurations

In the Remote App Sources section, add the Remote App Source, which should be the name of the Remote Desktop Session Host Farm.

Now that you understand how to set up a Remote Desktop through a Proxy Server, it's clear that the Remote Desktop Gateway plays a pivotal role. While Remote Desktop Web Access enables application access via a web portal, it's solely the Remote Desktop Gateway that permits users to connect via a proxy server. This setup allows users to reach the Remote Desktop Session Host on their behalf, even if they don't have direct access themselves.

AnyViewer: Make remote desktop software with proxy easy

Using a proxy server for remote desktop access over the internet enhances both the feasibility and security of the connection by circumventing firewalls and avoiding exposure to the public internet. This approach simplifies, secures, and enhances the efficiency of remote connections for businesses.

Instead of following technical steps, it's recommended to utilize software that integrates a built-in proxy server for remote desktop access over the internet, such as AnyViewer. These tools are user-friendly and highly effective.

AnyViewer facilitates seamless connections to computers beyond the local area network (LAN). Tailored for IT professionals, it enables secure remote sessions over the internet using a robust proxy. This remote access software ensures the relay and protection of communications between network devices and external users, enabling efficient management of devices located outside the LAN environment.

Here are the steps to set up and use a proxy to connect to a computer outside the LAN using AnyViewer:

Step 1. Download and install AnyViewer on both your local computer and the remote computer. Create an AnyViewer account and log in on both machines.

Step 2. On your local device, navigate to Settings > Network, and enter the required Proxy settings. Then, enable the proxy by clicking on the corresponding option.

Step 3. Locate the remote computer in the device list on the Device tab. Click on "One-click control" to initiate a remote desktop session over the internet.

Following these steps ensures that you can securely and conveniently connect to a remote computer outside your local network using AnyViewer's built-in proxy capabilities.

★Tips: Consider upgrading to a Professional or Enterprise plan for added benefits such as:

More devices for remote access

Unlimited simultaneous sessions

Faster file transfers

Better image quality and color

Enhanced device management

…

The bottom line

In conclusion, using a proxy server for remote desktop access enhances security and bypasses firewall restrictions, which is crucial for businesses. This tutorial provided a step-by-step guide to setting up a Remote Desktop via a proxy server. For a more straightforward and user-friendly solution, consider using AnyViewer, a remote desktop software with built-in proxy support. It simplifies the process and ensures secure, efficient remote connections, making it an excellent choice for IT technicians managing devices outside the local network.