By Ellie / Last Updated March 14, 2024

How can I access my computer through WiFi?

 

I bought a laptop, but for business reasons, I often need to use it to remotely control my desktop. Therefore, now I need to know how to remotely control my PC over WiFi, just like I’m sitting in front of my PC. How can I solve it?”

- Question from Reddit

Remotely Control PC over WiFi

Remote PC control refers to the capability of accessing and managing a computer from a distance, enabling users to perform tasks as if they were physically present at the machine. This technology has revolutionized various aspects of both personal and professional computing. The following are some popular methods that can help you remotely control PC over WiFi.

How to remotely control PC over WiFi [3 methods]

Now, continue reading to learn how to remotely control a PC over WiFi from both a laptop and mobile devices. We'll explore the benefits and shortcomings to assist you in making an informed decision.

Method 1. Remotely control PC from anywhere via AnyViewer

AnyViewer stands out as one of the premier third-party remote control software options, enabling users to effortlessly control their PC from any location. Whether the devices are connected via WiFi on the same network or across different networks, AnyViewer ensures a swift and seamless connection without the need for additional network configuration.

Besides, AnyViewer has the following features:

  • Unattended Access: AnyViewer allows remote connections to devices even when unattended, ideal for troubleshooting and maintenance.
  • File Transfer: Easily share files between connected devices, streamlining collaboration.
  • Mobile Mirror: View and control mobile devices remotely from a computer, enhancing support and productivity.
  • Screen Sharing: With AnyViewer, support agents can quickly view and resolve issues by sharing the user's screen in real-time.
  • Screen Wall: AnyViewer allows users to monitor multiple remote screens simultaneously on a single display, making it easier to manage multiple devices at once.
  • ...

Let's see how to remotely control PC from anywhere via AnyViewer:

Part 1. Set up AnyViewer on the remote computer

Step 1. Download, install, and run AnyViewer on the Windows-based host computer.

Download Freeware Win PCs & Servers
Secure Download

Step 2. Go to Log in, and then click Sign up to create an AnyViewer account.

Log in AnyViewer

Part 2. Start remote control from the local device

To remotely access a PC from a PC or mobile device, follow the steps below.

  • Remotely access PC from a PC

Step 1. On your local PC, get AnyViewer. Then, log in to the same AnyViewer account.

Free Editions

Step 2. Go to Device, click the remote computer, and then you can achieve unattended remote access by clicking One-click control.

Connect to My Devices

  • Remotely access PC from a mobile device

Step 1. Download AnyViewer for iOS or Android from App Store or Google Play. Log in to the same AnyViewer account.

Step 2. Then all the devices logged in to the same account will be displayed here.

Step 3. Tap the remote computer, and tap One-click control to achieve unattended remote access to the specific computer.

Control PC from iPhone

Step 4. Then you'll be successfully connecting to the remote PC from your mobile device. It supports both vertical and horizontal screens, you can switch freely.

iPhone to AnyViewer

✍ Note:
Upgrade your account to a Professional or Enterprise plan if you wish to assign more devices for one-click unattended remote access, control multiple computers simultaneously, or unlock advanced features such as connecting to other computers in privacy mode.

 

Method 2. Conrtol PC over WiFi via the Windows built-in RDP

To enable PC remote control over WiFi, utilize the built-in Windows app, Remote Desktop. Ensure both the host computer and the local device are connected to the same WiFi network, then proceed with the following steps.

Before Starting, there are two things you'll need to pay attention to:

  • If the two devices are not connected to the same WiFi network, you'll need to configure port forwarding or use a VPN. However, note that these alternative methods may be more complex, so it's advisable to explore other options.
  • Remote Desktop Connection (RDP) is not supported on Windows 10 Home Edition, Windows 8/8.1 Home Edition, and Windows 7 Starter/Home Edition. To use it, please upgrade to the Professional or Enterprise version.

Part 1. Set up Remote Desktop the remote computer

Step 1. Navigate here: Start > Settings > System > Remote Desktop, and turn on Enable Remote Desktop.

Enable

Step 2. Find User accounts and click Select users that can remotely access this PC.

Find User Account

Step 3. After opening the Remote Desktop Users window, click Add to add users who are allowed to access this computer (you need to add already existing users to realize remote desktop).

Add Allowed Access Users

Part 2. Start remote control from the local device

The steps of accessing from PC and mobile devices can be a little different.

  • Start remtoe control from your local PC

Step 1. The client PC doesn’t need any configuration. Just search for Remote Desktop Connection in the Search box. And then open it.

Remote Desktop Connection

Step 2. Enter the IP address and user name in the Remote Desktop Connection interface to achieve connection(if you don’t know what your computer’s IP address and user name are, follow the tutorial below).

Computer

  • Start remtoe control from your mobile devices

The following operation steps take the iOS system as an example, teaching you how to achieve iPhone remote control Windows 10. The steps are similar if you want to achieve Android remote control Windows 10.

Step 1. Search for “Microsoft Remote Desktop” in the App Store, and open the APP after the download and installation are complete. Click the “+” sign in the upper right corner of the interface, and select “Add Computer” in the pop-up window.

Step 2. Add PC name and User Account, and then click Save.

Step 3. Click the IP address icon just created, enter the user name and password of the controlled computer in the pop-up Enter Your User Account interface, and click Continue to successfully establish the connection.

Control PC from iPhone RDP

Step 4. Then you could see the screen of the controlled PC on your mobile device, and control the mouse.

Mobile Remote Control PC

How to query IP address and user name

Step 1. Press the Windows key + R to invoke the Run dialog box. Type in “cmd” and press OK. Then type “ipconfig” and press Enter. Now you can see a group of IP addresses, of which the IPv4 address is the one you need.

Find the Computer Name in the Console

Step 2. Then type “query user”to see the username.

Find the Username in the Control Panel

Method 3. Remote control PC via Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome Remote Desktop is a remote access tool developed by Google that allows users to remotely access and control another computer through the Chrome browser. It enables users to securely access their computers or provide remote assistance to others over the internet. 

Before ahead to Google Chrome Remote Desktop tutorial, make sure you have these two essentials:

  • Google account
  • Chrome web browser

Step 1. On both computers, sign in to the same Google Account if you are not logged in. Then, open the Chrome Remote Desktop web page.

Sign in Google Account

Step 2. Click Remote Access first and then click the blue download button.

Set Up Remote Access

Step 3. Click on Add to Chrome to add the Chrome Remote Desktop in your Chrome browser.

Add to Chrome

Step 4. Click Add extension to confirm the download.

Add Chrome Remote Desktop Extension

Step 5. Click Accept & Install.

Ready to Install

Step 6. Enter a name for your computer and then click Next.

Choose Name

Step 7. Choose a PIN with at least 6 numbers, and then enter it twice to start the program.

Choose A PIN

Step 8. After both computers have successfully created their PINs, you can see the available computers here on the local computer. Click the computer you want to connect to.

Remote Devices

Step 9. Enter the PIN of the remote computer, then click the blue arrow. Then you can start to control it.

Enter the Set up PIN

Conclusion

 

In conclusion, remote control PC over WiFi offers immense flexibility for both personal and professional tasks. Whether using third-party software like AnyViewer, Windows built-in Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), or Google Chrome Remote Desktop, the process can be streamlined with the right tools and setup. These methods empower users to seamlessly control their PCs from anywhere, enhancing productivity and facilitating collaboration. By following the outlined steps and utilizing the appropriate method tailored to your needs, you can efficiently access and manage your computer remotely, ensuring you stay connected and productive regardless of your location.