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Remote desktop protocol (RDP) is a proprietary protocol developed by Microsoft that allows a user to control another computer remotely.
RDP enables users to access their files, programs, and network from any location using either a remote client application or Microsoft’s own RDC client, which has been included in Windows operating systems ever since Windows XP was launched. In addition, you can buy the software from reputed sellers like RDPArena.
How Does RDP Work?
According to Statista, from February 2020-June 2020, the Asia-Pacific region saw the most increase in daily VPN and RDP authentications to remote technology.
Microsoft uses the proprietary Remote Desktop Protocol, which adopts the client-server model. In other words, one computer runs a program (the “client”), and another one (the “server”) receives the commands and performs them.
The person controlling the remote computer (the “client”) has complete control over the remote computer (the “server”) and can use it as if he was sitting in front of it. However, both computers must be running a program that uses RDP; the notable exception is Windows for Pen Computing, which created its RDP-like protocol called WPD.
Who Uses It?
RDP is used mainly by large companies to provide access to their network from remote locations, branch offices and home employees. In that way, employees can work on centrally stored files or use the company’s software.
RDP is usually used in conjunction with a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which adds security to connections and may be required by some companies’ policies.
Servers Often Require Access Via RDP
The most common server platforms that use RDP are Windows Server and Linux (using the open-source desktop client). The computers running these servers usually require remote administration for various purposes, such as fixing software issues on the machine or changing configurations.
A VPN can add a security layer when connecting via RDP. Still, in most cases, the server is located within a secure network where access is tightly controlled and firewalls limit connections to specific IP addresses. There is no need for a VPN connection in such cases since remote users are already inside the corporate network and cannot access anything outside it.
Where to Buy RDP?
It would be best to buy the connection from verified sellers like RDP Arena. There are three main ways to buy access to a computer via RDP:
1. Hosted sessions (Virtual Private Servers)
You control your VPS remotely, but you do not need to configure your VPN or install any software because it is already done for you. The only downside is that it is usually limited to one user at a time. But in practice, this makes a minimal difference because there are other means of access available if the VPS is in use by another person.
2. Dedicated session (Dedicated Servers)
A dedicated session gives you several options for configuring your remote connection as you like. The user accounts can access the session, custom port numbers, and protocols. It may include a VPN connection as well if you wish. However, this remote access is more expensive than VPS access.
3. Traditional remote desktop (Virtual Private Desktops)
This option is similar to dedicated servers, but it usually comes with a pre-configured and locked-down configuration. It offers features, such as securing the RDP connection via VPN. However, the downside is paying for each desktop session separately, especially if your company has several employees who need dedicated sessions. This may become expensive.
When deciding which way to access your remote session, the critical thing to consider is what you need – do you need a VPN connection? Do you want to work on files, or are there other tasks required as well? What kinds of customizations would be helpful? And how many employees will be accessing the remote session?
The more sessions your users require at any one time, the better-dedicated servers are for you. If only one or two employees access the remote session, VPS and traditional RDP may be overkill. Instead, most companies opt for more straightforward and cheaper systems, such as hosted sessions and dedicated desktops.
What Should be the Location of the Server?
Wherever possible, it is most convenient to choose a server close to where your employees are located. For instance, if the company’s HQ is in New York, but they have branch offices in Los Angeles and San Francisco, choosing a provider for each of those locations makes sense.
You must also factor in your internet connection speeds to ensure an RDP session is of adequate quality.
Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
Companies usually overlook hosting terms and conditions, but it is vital to check that the SLA is suitable for your business.
Suppose a provider guarantees 99 percent uptime per month, and you choose a server located somewhere where internet connections are less dependable (e.g., South America). In that case, your uptime may fall below this threshold.
