How to Copy Files from PC to Remote Desktop [2 Tested Ways]

How do I transfer files from PC to remote desktop?

“I use remote desktop software to connect to my work computer from home in order to view files. I also want to transfer files from time to time, but I’m not sure how. Could someone please provide me with a detailed tutorial?”

2 ways: how to copy files from PC to remote desktop 

Here in this section, we provide you with two options on how to copy files from PC to remote desktop with detailed steps. Specifically, two tools are introduced here, the free third-party software AnyViewer and the Windows built-in Remote Desktop Connection.

Way 1. Transfer files between remote devices via AnyViewer [Recommended]

The first way to transfer files between remote devices is to use the free and easy remote desktop software AnyViewer. It is recommended for the following reasons:

• Compatibility. It’s compatible with various kinds of Windows systems from Windows 7 to the latest Windows 11.
• Security. It’s encrypted with Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC), which keeps your files safe from prying eyes.
• Fast speed. It allows you to transfer a batch of files at a really fast speed.

✍Note: The file transfer function requires version 3.0 and above. If your version is lower, please upgrade first.

Download, install and launch AnyViewer on both computers. Then you got two options.

Part 1. Sign up for AnyViewer for file transfer

To use the file transfer feature, you need to sign up for AnyViewer and log in to the account on the Controller computer.

Step 1. On the Controller computer, go to Log in, and then click Sign up. (If you already have signed up on its official website, you can log in directly.)

Step 2. Fill in the signup information.

Step 3. Then you can see you successfully logged in to AnyViewer. Your device will automatically be assigned to the account you’ve logged in to. 

Part 2. Transfer files with AnyViewer

After signing up for an AnyViewer account and logging in to AnyViewer on the Controller computer, you can start to transfer files. Depending on different situations, you can choose different ways to achieve file transfer.

Option 1. Transfer files without controlling the remote computer

Step 1. Enter the device ID of the recipient on the blank box, and then choose File Transfer.

Step 2. Then you’ll be asked whether to Send a request to your partner or Input security code.

• Send a request to your partner: The Recipient computer will receive a pop-up window asking whether he/she allows you to control his/her computer.
• Input security code: You can input the security code set by the Recipient in advance and achieve a direct connection.

Tips: This option is suitable for users who need to transfer files to a stranger or anyone that you do not completely trust, ensuring security during file transfer.

Option 2. Transfer files during a remote connection session

Step 1. On the Recipient computer, log in to the same account as you’ve logged in to on the Controller computer.

Step 2. On the Controller computer, go to the Device tab, choose your target computer, and click File Transfer to start transferring files.

Tips: This option is suitable for users who need to frequently access their own remote computers and transfer files, ensuring convenience during transfer.

Whatever options you select, a File Transfer dialog box will appear. The path of the Controller computer is shown on the left of the box, and the path of the Recipient computer is shown on the right. You’re able to transfer files between devices (from the Controller computer to the Recipient computer or from the Recipient computer to the Controller computer) freely by clicking the arrows after choosing the target files.

You can see the transfer status at the bottom of the File Transfer dialog box. Right-click to pause or remove the transfer task. The dialog can be closed when the transfer is complete.

Note: The maximum size of a single file that can be transferred for the free account is 100 MB, and the maximum number of files that can be transferred per time is 100. If you want to transfer larger files in more quantity per time, please upgrade to a Professional or Enterprise plan.

Way 2. Remote file transfer during Windows RDP sessions

The second method for how to copy files from my PC to a remote desktop is to use the built-in Remote Desktop Connection in Windows. Please ensure that remote access is enabled on your host computer before using this tool.

Step 1. On the client computer, search for Remote Desktop Connection in the Search box. And then open it.

Step 2. On the main interface of Remote Desktop Connection, switch from the General tab to the Local Resources tab, and in the Local Devices and Resources column, click More.

Step 3. On the Local Devices and Resources interface, check the Drives and click OK.

Step 4. Go back to the General tab. Enter the IP address and user name in the Remote Desktop Connection interface to achieve connection.

After the connection is successful, you’ve got two options to transfer files.

Option 1. Copy and paste files directly

Step 1. On the remote desktop, choose the folder that you want to copy to your local computer with your mouse, and press Ctrl + C to copy files.

Step 2. Go to your desktop or a folder of your local computer, and press Ctrl + V to paste the copied files. This is how to copy-paste from PC to remote desktop.

Option 2. Transfer files in File Explorer

Step 1. Click This Computer on the host computer desktop, and find the previously checked disk.

Step 2. Find the disk that stores the files you need and select the file you want to transfer, click the Home tab above, and then click Move to. Click Choose Location in the drop-down menu to realize remote desktop file transfer.

Conclusion

This post primarily introduces how to copy files from a PC to a remote desktop. Of the two methods introduced, you’re highly recommended to choose AnyViewer. With it, you can transfer files between remote devices without effort.