Remote access via RDP: Windows PC, macOS, iPhone & iPad
1. Overview
Access to the Windows Server (with OptionsApp and TWS) is via Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP).
On Windows, you use the built-in Remote Desktop Connection tool (mstsc).
On macOS and iPhone/iPad, you use Microsoft's "Windows App" (the earlier "Microsoft Remote Desktop" app has been renamed/replaced by Microsoft).
2. Prerequisites
- Public IP/DNS of the server; RDP must be enabled on the server side (should be the default).
- RDP user (usually: Administrator) and password. These are not your Strato or Ionos login credentials, but the login credentials for the server itself.
- On Apple devices, the Windows App from the App Store. On iOS/iPadOS, it's currently listed as "Windows App Mobile" and carries the note "Formerly Remote Desktop".
3. Connecting from a Windows PC
Instructions:
- Open Start menu, then launch Remote Desktop Connection (or Win + R, then mstsc).
- Computer: Enter the server IP/DNS (e.g., 203.0.113.10).
- Connect, then Enter login credentials, then Confirm.
Note: The classic Windows component "Remote Desktop Connection" remains available; the new "Windows App" replaces the newer Microsoft Store app "Remote Desktop" (this does not affect mstsc).
4. Connecting from a Mac (macOS)
4.1 Install Windows App
- Open Mac App Store, then Install Windows App by Microsoft, then Launch it. (The Windows App replaces the earlier "Microsoft Remote Desktop" app.)
4.2 Add PC/Server
- Select Add PC.
- PC Name: Enter the server IP.
- User Account: Save user/password.
- Optionally enable Full screen, then Start connection.
5. Connecting with iPhone or iPad (iOS/iPadOS)
5.1 Install Windows App Mobile
- App Store, then Windows App Mobile (Microsoft).
5.2 Set up PC/Server
- Open app, then +, then Add PC.
- PC Name: Server IP/DNS.
- Save User Account, then Tap to connect.
- Operation via touch/zoom; keyboard appears on demand, external BT keyboard supported.
Technical note: Microsoft's current Windows App has officially replaced the older iOS Remote Desktop app; functionality and purpose (RDP to remote PCs and cloud desktops) are described in the Microsoft Docs.
6. Best Practices & Security
- Use strong passwords and consider IP filtering/VPN if needed.
- In the app, only share clipboard/drives when necessary.
- Keep time synchronization (NTP) active on the server to avoid RDP login token/SSL issues.
- Use different user accounts for multiple simultaneous RDP sessions.