Connecting to a Windows VDS server with Remote Desktop (RDP)

One of the things users who rent a Windows-based VDS (virtual private server) need most often is to connect to their server over Remote Desktop (RDP). This guide walks you through the RDP connection step by step on Windows, Mac and mobile.

What You Need

• The IP address of your Windows VDS server from the Light Hosting panel
• The server username (usually: Administrator)
• The server password (you can view it in the panel)
• The Windows RDP client (built into Windows) or Microsoft Remote Desktop for Mac

1. Connecting over RDP from a Windows computer

You can use the Remote Desktop Connection app that comes built into Windows.

1. Open the Start menu and type Remote Desktop Connection, or press Win + R and type mstsc.
2. In the window that opens, enter your VDS server's IP address in the Computer field.
3. Connect and click the button.
4. On the sign-in screen that appears, enter your Username and Password.
5. If a certificate warning appears, click Yes to continue.

2. Connecting over a different port

If your server uses a different port instead of the standard 3389, add it to the end of the IP address :PORT to connect:

3. Connecting over RDP from a Mac

Mac users need to download the free Microsoft Remote Desktop app from the App Store.

1. Open the app, click the + button and choose Add PC.
2. Enter your VDS IP address in the PC Name field.
3. Add your username and password under User Account.
4. Double-click the connection to connect to the server.

4. Common problems

• Connection timeout: Make sure port 3389 is open in the server firewall.
• Authentication error: Make sure the username and password are entered correctly.
• Remote desktop disabled: Remote Desktop may not be enabled in the server settings.