Top Choices for Choosing an RDP Server

Setting up an RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) server is a crucial step for remote access and management of remote desktops. Whether you are a system administrator, small business owner, or a home user, having an efficient and reliable RDP server is essential. This guide will help you decide on the best RDP server options for both Windows and Linux operating systems.

Windows RDP Server

The Windows Remote Desktop service is primarily available pre-installed on most Windows operating systems, making it a straightforward choice for those using Windows environments. To enable the RDP service, follow these steps:

Step 1: Open the Windows Features Window

First, you need to access the Windows Features section within the Windows Control Panel. Open the Start menu and type 'Turn Windows features on or off' to find the correct window. Once you open it, a window will appear that lists all the available Windows features.

Step 2: Enable Remote Desktop

Scroll down to find the RDP (Remote Desktop) option and check the box next to it. This action enables the Remote Desktop for both Users and System.

Step 3: Configure Remote Desktop Settings

After enabling the RDP service, you can further customize your Remote Desktop settings by navigating to System Properties, finding the Remote tab, and configuring the settings as needed.

Linux RDP Server

For users operating in a Linux environment, XRDP X Remote Desktop Protocol is a popular choice. XRDP provides a full Remote Desktop solution that is compatible with both Windows and Linux operating systems. Here’s how to install and set up XRDP on a Linux distribution:

Step 1: Update Your System

First, make sure your Linux system is up-to-date by executing the following command:

sudo apt update sudo apt upgrade

Step 2: Install XRDP

Once updated, you can install XRDP using the following command:

sudo apt install xrdp

Step 3: Start and Enable XRDP Service

After installation, start the XRDP service using this command:

sudo systemctl start xrdp

If you want the XRDP service to start automatically upon system boot, use the following command:

sudo systemctl enable xrdp

Step 4: Configure XRDP Settings

You can adjust XRDP settings by modifying the configuration file located at Here, you can make adjustments such as specifying allowed users and security options.

Step 5: Allow RDP Through the Firewall

To ensure that remote connections to XRDP are allowed, open port 3389 (default RDP port) in the firewall. Use the following command to configure the firewall:

sudo ufw allow 3389

Additional Recommendations for Securing RDP

While both Windows Remote Desktop and Linux XRDP are excellent choices, it’s crucial to take security measures to protect your remote desktop environment. Below are some recommendations to enhance security:

1. Use Strong Passwords and Authentication Methods

Ensure that all user accounts have strong and unique passwords. Consider implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.

2. Enable Network Level Authentication (NLA)

In Windows RDP, enable Network Level Authentication to prevent password caching and ensure stronger security.

3. Restrict Access to Trusted IPs

In both RDP solutions, limit access to the RDP port to trusted IP addresses only, thereby reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

4. Keep Your RDP Server Updated

Regularly updating your RDP server and keeping your operating system up to date helps in patching security vulnerabilities and improving overall system security.

Conclusion

Selecting the right RDP server for your needs is critical for efficient remote desktop management. Whether you opt for the built-in Windows Remote Desktop service or choose the flexible XRDP on Linux, the choice should be based on your specific requirements and security needs. With the right setup and additional security measures, you can enjoy the benefits of remote desktop access without compromising on security.