Remote Desktop

[seekermeister]

I was pleasantly surprised that when I replaced W7 x32 RC, with x64 Pro on my secondary rig, it appeared that the files on each rig on the network were now accessible. However, instead of simply files, I would like for each computer to be able to see everything on the other

I have never dealt with it, because it sounds more like something for a person to access someone else's computer from the internet, but I got to wondering if Remote Desktop could be used just on the local network, without permitting anyone to access it from the internet, and if this would actually give full access between computers?

EDIT: Also, if this would permit a secondary unit to be able to use the primary as a gateway to access the internet wirelessly.

 

[RedBirdDad]

RDP can be used as long as the machines are directly accessible by IP address and they run W7 Pro, Enterprise or Ultimate. As long as your router blocks inbound access to port 3389, the machines cannot be accessed from the internet. W7 Home Premium only has an RDP client. When you login to a remote machine using RDP you essentially are logged directly in to that machine just as if you were sitting at the keyboard. RDP runs as a separate session though.

You can can have virtually total access and control over the target machine including access to hard dives and transferring files between them.

RDP is a client/server support tool and can't be used to provide any networking services like connection sharing.

 

[seekermeister]

All is good, except your last statement. I guess that is your way of saying that the secondary rig wouldn't be able to access the internet via RDP. Since this is no problem when hardwired via the router, is there some way that I could give both machines internet access wirelessly?

 

[RedBirdDad]

You're correct, RDP doesn't allow one machine access to another's network connections.

To give both network access I'll need to know how you have them connected. You mentioned both wireless and a wired router. Can you describe the configuration for each machine?

 

[seekermeister]

My router is a ZyXel X550, which is both wired and wireless. I would have to get a WIFI controller card for the secondary rig to connect them. As far as the configuration of each machine, I don't understand what you mean? For the moment, I have both machine hardwired via the router, but I want the secondary unit for a different room, and it isn't feasible to run cables between them.

 

[RedBirdDad]

OK, Got it.

Just make the secondary machine wireless and have it connect to the router. The router will handle all networking between the two machines even though they're physically connected differently. The router will make them both look like they're on the same network. As long as both are running W7 Pro, Enterprise or Ultimate you'll be able to RDP into either one from the other. Should work great as long as you have a good quality signal.

 

[seekermeister]

Thanks, I think I have a handle on it now.

 

[RedBirdDad]

Glad to help. Let me know how it goes.