Connect to a Windows VPS with Remote Desktop
On Windows, open Remote Desktop Connection (mstsc), enter your VPS IP and log in as Administrator. On Mac, iPhone or Android use Microsoft's Windows App.
- Difficulty:
- Beginner
- Time:
- 5 minutes
On this page
You use a Windows VPS through Remote Desktop (RDP). Enter the VPS IP address, log in as Administrator with the password from your "VPS ready" email, and you see the server's desktop. RDP uses port 3389.
What you need
The VPS IP address and the
Administratorpassword from your "VPS ready" email.A few minutes after the order: Windows takes longer to set up than Linux. If you can't connect straight away, wait a little and try again.
From a Windows PC
Press
Windows + R, typemstscand press Enter. This opens Remote Desktop Connection.In Computer, type your VPS IP address and click Connect.
When asked for credentials, choose More choices → Use a different account if your own Windows account is filled in.
Enter the username
Administratorand your password, then click OK.You may see a certificate warning because the server uses its own certificate. Check that the IP is yours, tick the box if you don't want to be asked again, and click Yes.
Click Show Options before connecting to save the connection, change the screen size, or share a local drive so you can copy files to the server.
From a Mac, iPhone, iPad or Android
Install Microsoft's Windows App from the App Store or Google Play. It replaces the older "Microsoft Remote Desktop" app on these devices.
Open Windows App and choose to add a PC.
For the PC name, enter your VPS IP address.
Add a user account with
Administratorand your password (or enter them when you connect).Save, then tap the new PC to connect. Accept the certificate warning if it appears.
After you log in
Change the Administrator password to one only you know: press
Ctrl + Alt + Endinside the remote session, then choose Change a password.Run Windows Update and install all updates.
Keep Windows Firewall turned on. Only open the ports your apps need.
More tips are in Secure your new VPS.
On our India VPS, Windows Server 2019 and 2016 are evaluation editions with a 180-day licence. Plan ahead: keep backups of your data and choose Windows Server 2022 if you need it long-term. See Reinstall the OS and reset the password.
Can't connect?
Problem | What to try |
|---|---|
Can't reach the computer / times out | Make sure the VPS is running and setup has finished. Check you typed the right IP. Some office or school networks block port 3389; try mobile data. |
Your credentials did not work | Type the username as |
Worked before, now times out | A firewall change or Windows update may have blocked RDP. Use the web console on your VPS page (billing panel → Servers → Manage) where available, or open a ticket. |
Frequently asked questions
Can more than one person use the server at once?
Windows Server allows two administrative Remote Desktop sessions at the same time. More users need extra Microsoft licences.
How do I copy files to the VPS?
Copy and paste works in most Remote Desktop apps, and on Windows you can share a local drive under Show Options → Local Resources. For large files, download them directly on the server.
Should I change the RDP port?
It can reduce automated login attempts, but a strong password matters much more. If you change it, allow the new port in Windows Firewall first, or you will lock yourself out.
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