How to Remotely Access Another Computer Using CMD

This post introduces how to remotely access another computer using CMD. First set up Windows Remote Desktop and then connect to another PC via Command Prompt.

By @Hester Last Updated April 2, 2024

How can I remotely access another computer using CMD?

 

When I work at home, it troubles me that I sometimes need to perform tasks or pull up a file using my work computer. My friend suggested I access my work PC to solve this problem. Is there anybody who could please tell me how can I control another computer using CMD?"

- Question from Reddit

Fortunately, you can remotely access another computer using CMD through a command called "MSTSC". This command allows you to open Windows Remote Desktop Connection directly from the command prompt. Follow the step-by-step tutorial below to learn how to remotely access another computer using CMD.

Stepwise tutorial to remotely access another computer using CMD [3 parts] 

Accessing another computer remotely via Windows Remote Desktop Connection using CMD is straightforward. However, it requires some preparation and setup beforehand.

Preparation work on both computers

Before proceeding with any operations, it's important to understand the requirements for both computers to remotely access another computer using CMD via Remote Desktop Connection:

  • Check your Windows version: Windows Home and Standard editions cannot be accessed remotely using Windows Remote Desktop Connection. Ensure compatibility with the version of the RDP Server (the computer or device being accessed remotely).

  • Verify the RDP Server status: The RDP Server must be turned on and not in sleep or hibernation mode before initiating a connection.

  • Ensure network connection: Both the RDP Server and RDP Client (the computer or device accessing another computer remotely) need to be connected to the same network. If accessing another computer in a different network, perform port forwarding or use a VPN for connectivity.

Set up Windows Remote Desktop on the RDP Server previously

Next, you need to set up Windows Remote Desktop on the RDP Server. 

1. Enable Remote Desktop in Settings

Navigate here: Settings > System > Remote Desktop > Turn on the Enable Remote Desktop, and then click the Confirm button.

2. Allow remote connection to RDP Server

Step 1. Press Windows + R to open Run box. Type “sysdm.cpl” in the entry bar and press Enter to open System Properties.

Step 2. In the System Properties window, go to the "Remote" tab, and check ”Allow remote connection to this computer”.

3. Get the IP address and username

Step 1. Press Win + R on the host computer to open the Run dialog box. Enter "cmd" and then hit OK.

Step 2. To get the IP address for Remote Dekstop, enter the command "ipconfig" and note the IPv4 Address.

Step 3. To get the PC name for Remote Desktop, type in “query user”, and you can see your PC name.

Remotely access another computer from RDP Client using CMD

Once all the necessary steps have been completed, you can now use remote CMD to another PC from the RDP client.

Step 1. Type "mstsc /console /v:computername" into Command Prompt, and place “computername” with the specific username of the computer you want to connect to. For example, the username of the PC I want to log in to is Vivian PC.

Step 2. This entry takes you to access your RDP Server without permission straight.

Alternatively, you can also type in “mstsc” and press Enter to invoke the Remote Desktop Connection window. Then type in the IP address and username of the RDP Server, and then click Connect.

Remotely access another computer easily and intuitively with AnyViewer

CMD connects to remote computer via Windows Remote Desktop Connection is not intuitive enough. Instead, AnyViewer offers a simpler method for remotely accessing another computer. It stands as a professional remote access software, providing a secure and user-friendly platform for accessing and controlling remote devices.

Here are several advantages of AnyViewer over Windows Remote Desktop Connection:

Expanded Windows compatibility: AnyViewer is compatible with a broader range of Windows editions compared to Remote Desktop. In addition to Windows Pro and above, AnyViewer supports Standard and Home editions, which are not supported by Remote Desktop.
Enhanced features: AnyViewer offers a variety of additional in-session features that surpass what's available in Remote Desktop. These include text chat, screen wall, mobile screen mirroring, and more.
Support for multiple connections: AnyViewer supports multiple connections without the need for additional tools. This means that multiple users can simultaneously connect to and control the same remote computer, or one user can connect to multiple remote computers at once.

After downloading and installing, follow the next steps to connect to another PC via AnyViewer.

Download Freeware Win PCs & Servers
Secure Download

Note: If you want to remotely access computer from mobile devices, you can download AnyViewer iOS or Android edition from App Store or Google Play. 

Step 1. On the Server computer, go to Log in on the left pane, and click Sign up (You can log in directly if you already have signed up).

Step 2. When you successfully log in to AnyViewer, your devices will automatically be assigned to the account you’ve logged in to.

Step 3. Log in to the same AnyViewer account on the Client computer, choose the target Server computer and click One-click control to achieve unattended remote access.

✔ Tips: You can also upgrade to a Professional or Enterprise plan to enjoy the following rights:
 Assign more devices to achieve unattended remote access. One-click control is available only between assigned devices. Free account supports assigning up to 3 devices; advanced plans support assigning up to more devices. 
 Enjoy unlimited simultaneous sessions. A free account allows you to control 2 computers simultaneously from one PC while advanced plans enable you to control unlimited PCs at the same time. 
Enhanced privacy mode: Safeguard your privacy by blackening the screen of the remote PC and disabling its keyboard and mouse.
 High-speed file transfer: Transfer an unlimited number of files at speeds of up to 10 MB/s.
Improved device management: Organize devices into groups and create additional screen walls for more efficient device management.

 

Conclusion

This post introduces how to access another computer using CMD remotely. By following the outlined steps and preparations, users can establish a secure connection efficiently. Moreover, exploring alternatives like AnyViewer provides enhanced features and flexibility for remote access, catering to diverse user needs. Whether opting for traditional CMD methods or exploring advanced software solutions, remote access facilitates seamless productivity and collaboration across multiple devices, contributing to a more efficient work environment.