Configure Port Forwarding for Remote Desktop: Guide & Alternative

In an era where remote connectivity is vital, configuring port forwarding for remote desktops arises as a necessary practice. This enables effective access to computers within private networks from external locations, fostering flexibility and productivity. So, users can manage their workflow on the required PC even from a far distance. This, however, saves travel costs and helps users avoid any inconvenience.

In this guide, we will discuss what RDP port forwarding is actually and how to configure it. Moreover, we will also outline some points to help you understand whether it is safe or not. Also, get to learn about the best remote desktop app to help users connect to any PC remotely. 

Part 1. Port Forwarding for Remote Desktop: An Overview

Port forwarding serves as the gateway for RDP traffic, ensuring that data navigates through firewalls and network address translation (NAT) systems to reach the intended destination. Beyond convenience, security is a necessary consideration. By customizing external port numbers and implementing strong authentication measures, users fortify their RDP connections against potential threats.

In simple words, Windows remote desktop port forwarding establishes a two-way communication channel. Your computer can send information out to the Internet. So, when someone wants to connect to your computer remotely, port forwarding directs incoming information to the right place inside your home network.

Part 2. Is Port Forwarding Secure for Remote Desktop Access?

Port forwarding for remote desktops, like any technology, introduces potential security risks if not implemented and managed correctly. Below are some considerations regarding the safety of port forwarding for remote desktops:

• Default Port Vulnerability: The default port for remote desktops is port 3389. So, if you use this default port and have port forwarding enabled, it becomes more susceptible to automated scans and attacks. 
• Authentication Security: Port forwarding alone does not guarantee security. It's necessary to implement strong authentication measures, such as using complex passwords. Moreover, if possible, enabling multi-factor authentication ensures that only users with valid credentials can access your system.
• Regular Software Updates: Keeping your operating system and any remote desktop software up to date is essential. Frequently, software updates incorporate security patches designed to address and resolve vulnerabilities.
• Network Security: Port forwarding essentially opens a door in your network's firewall to allow external access. It's essential to configure firewalls and routers to only allow traffic from trusted sources.
• VPN Usage: For an extra layer of security, consider using a VPN in conjunction with RDP port forwarding. A VPN encrypts the communication between your device and the network, adding a level of confidentiality to the data being transmitted.

Part 3. Setting Up Port Forwarding for Remote Desktop Access

After we have become familiar with port forwarding for the remote desktop, let's make the port forwarding process for the remote desktop easy for you. We will guide you through steps for Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, but you must remember that exact steps might vary based on your router:

Step 1: First, press the keys “Win + R” together, type "regedit" in the run dialog box, and press the "OK" button to access further options.

Step 2: Afterward, in the window that appears, navigate to the port number using these directions: "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE > System > CurrentControlSet > Control > TerminalServer > WinStations > RDP-Tcp." After that, in the right side panel, locate "Port Number" and double-click it.

Step 3: Now, here, you will need to change the current port number. Choose a new port number between 1025 and 65535, click the "OK” button, and proceed to restart your computer.

Step 4: Following this, press “Win + R,” type "cmd," and hit the "Enter” key on your keyboard. Afterward, type “ipconfig" and hit the "Enter" key again. Here, you will need to look for "IPv4 Address" and note this IP address.

Step 5: Access the web browser and type in the router's address that you are currently connected to. If you don't know the address, you can check your router's manual. Once done, you will see a new window where you have to type your username and password and press the “Login" button.

Step 6: Inside the router, find the "Port Forwarding/Port Triggering" tab in the left side panel and hit the "Add Custom Service " button to access further options.

Step 7: Next, name your section, choose "TCP/UDP" or "Both" for the service type, and type the port number that you just entered in the previous steps. Also, you will need to enter the IP address of the device.

Step 8: At last, hit the "Apply” button to save the changes, and if prompted, restart the router. Your PC will be ready for the remote session.

Tips: Simplifying the Remote Access Initiation Process

Now that you have learned to configure port forwarding for a remote desktop, it is often a difficult way to establish a remote connection. However, Avica, the most trusted remote desktop tool, provides a perfect way to connect to devices remotely. This tool is straightforward to use and offers high-end security with an AES 256 encryption level. Moreover, even in areas with low internet connectivity, Avica offers low latency features.

Users can also enable the privacy mode to blackout the screen when handling some private tasks. There is also a voice sync feature that lets users transmit sound from the client device to the targeted desktop. For much better control over remote sessions, users can choose to view and manage multiple monitors at a time. Moreover, this innovative remote control app can be used on Android, iOS, Mac, or Windows devices.

Feel free to download Avica products by clicking the button below. If you're seeking additional information about Avica product downloads, you can visit the Avica download page. Rest assured, Avica guarantees the safety and virus-free nature of all products obtained from their official website or app store.

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Key Features of the Avica Remote Desktop

• Screen record the entire remote session using the built-in screen recorder in Avica.
• Transfer files to and from a remote PC using the file transfer feature and accessing the file manager.
• Chat with the end user using the built-in chat option and give any specific instructions.
• Set the resolution of the remote session and choose from smooth, HD, and ultra HD options.

Step-by-Step to Enable a Remote Session Using Avica

We will now proceed to the steps and learn how to build a remote session using this effective tool. This will, however, help you avoid the hassle of configuring port forwarding for remote desktops:

Step 1: Download Avica on Your PC and Targeted Device

First, download Avica on both your PC and the remote device. Afterward, launch this tool, enter the "Email" and "Password," and continue to hit the "Sign In" button.

Step 2: Grant Remote Device Access and Establish Connection Using Device ID

Begin by accessing Avica on the remote device, initiating the application, and logging in with identical credentials. Subsequently, activate the "Allow remote access to this device via your credentials" option. This action will reveal both the "Avica ID" and "Password" that you need to note down. Move to the local PC and enter the remote device's "Avica ID" in the "Remote Session" section. Finally, click the "Connect" button to establish remote access.

Step 3: Customize and Operate Remote Device Based on Your Preferences

Once successfully connected, a variety of features and settings become available for customization and management. Users have the option to engage in "Chat," activate "Privacy Mode," utilize "Voice Sync," initiate screen "Recording," apply "Mouse Lock," and transfer files to manage the remote desktop accordingly.

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Conclusion

Summing up, configuring port forwarding for remote desktops can be quite a challenging task, especially for those who are less familiar with the technology. So, for that, we have briefly discussed configuring it via router settings following some easy steps. However, at many points, it might feel inconvenient for users, so for that, we recommend using the Avica remote desktop tool.

This tool offers ease of use and a very user-friendly interface that helps everyone access it. Moreover, it offers many advanced features such as high-end protection, patented protocol, and even low latency features. Plus, when connected remotely, users can choose to manage a remote desktop via multiple shortcut keys.