Connecting to a Windows server with Remote Desktop (RDP)

Remote Desktop shows your Windows server's screen on your device so you can work on it as if you were in front of it.

1. 1
   Step 1

   Get your sign-in details

   On the server page copy the IP address (1). The username is Administrator, and the password is in the email, or create a new one with Change password (2).

   
2. 2
   Step 2

   Open Remote Desktop Connection (Windows)

   Press the Windows key, type mstsc or Remote Desktop Connection, and open it.

3. 3
   Step 3

   Enter the IP address and press Connect

   In the Computer field (1) type the server's IP address. If you changed the RDP port, add it after a colon, such as 203.0.113.10:3390. Press Connect (2).

   
4. 4
   Step 4

   Enter the username and password

   The Windows Security window opens. Type Administrator in User name (1), paste the password in Password (2), then press OK (3). If a saved username is shown, choose More choices → Use a different account.

   
5. 5
   Step 5

   Accept the server certificate

   On the first connection a message says the identity of the remote computer cannot be verified. This is normal for a new server. Tick Don't ask me again and press Yes.

   

   Note

   Image: Microsoft Learn, licensed under CC BY 4.0.

6. 6
   Step 6

   From a Mac or phone

   Install Microsoft's Windows App (App Store or Google Play), press + → Add PC, type the IP address, add the Administrator account and password, then tap the server to connect.