How to Connect to a VPS from MacOS via RDP

"Sometimes even Mac users need to step into the world of Windows. Learn how to connect from your Mac to a VPS using RDP."

In today's world, having access to remote desktops of your cloud server or VPS is essential. MacOS users, however, often face challenges connecting to Windows systems. One of the most common ways to accomplish this is through the RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol). In this article, we will walk you through the process of connecting to a Windows remote desktop from a MacOS device using RDP.

Understanding RDP

RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) is a protocol developed by Microsoft for remote management of Windows operating systems via a graphical interface. It is commonly used for connecting to virtual servers (VPS/VDS). Although MacOS does not natively support RDP, there are solutions available to address this limitation.

Setting Up RDP on Windows

Before you can successfully connect to your Windows server, make sure that the Windows server has an active internet connection and that the firewall rules are configured to allow incoming RDP connections. To enable remote desktop on your Windows server, follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings → System → Advanced System Settings → Remote Settings.

2. Check the box for "Allow remote connections to this computer."

If you're using Windows server images from our platform, this option is enabled by default. Be sure to record the computer name or, preferably, copy its IP address.

Security First!

Ensure that you use a complex password for your server — 16-20 characters with a mix of uppercase, lowercase, and special characters. It’s crucial to maintain the security of your connections and regularly update your software to minimize risks.

Using RDP Clients for MacOS

To connect to a Windows VPS desktop from a MacOS device, you will need an appropriate RDP client. Some popular RDP clients for MacOS include Microsoft Remote Desktop, CoRD, and Royal TSX. We recommend using the latest version of the official RDP client from Microsoft. You can download it from iTunes or the Mac App Store.

Setting Up the RDP Client

Creating a New Connection Connecting to your VPS is now easier than ever. Open Microsoft Remote Desktop on your Mac, click the New button at the top left corner of the window, and fill in the following details:

• PC Name: Enter the IP address of your rented server (refer to the RDP Connection Settings section).

• User Account: You can leave it set to "Ask when required" or input the login credentials immediately. Credentials for the Administrator account are provided in the personal dashboard after you order the VPS.

• Friendly Name: A name of your choice, e.g., "Windows 2022 Server".

Under the Devices & Audio tab, you can configure peripheral devices such as sound and printers.

Under the Folders tab (previously "Redirection"), you can choose a local directory or folders that will be accessible from the remote session. Click the "+" button, select the folder, and input its path. You will be able to copy files from this folder to the server and vice versa.

If there is a Gateway field, leave it empty ("No Gateway configured"). If there is a Session tab (for older Mac versions), ensure that all checkboxes are unchecked.

Working with the Server

Connecting to the Server Once your settings are saved, select the created connection and double-click it. On the first connection to the VPS, you will be asked for confirmation. Make sure to check all the boxes and click Connect.

Important! When connecting to the server, security certificate warnings might appear. Click View Certificate and check the box Always trust ... and then click Continue.

RDP on MacOS and Clipboard

Unfortunately, MacOS does not natively support clipboard redirection through RDP. For file transfers, you can upload them to a file-sharing service like Google Drive and download them on the server, or preferably use folder redirection in the session (the folder will be accessible).

Copying Files

To copy files, open Explorer on the server (by opening any folder) and select This PC from the list on the left. Under it, you will find a list of your local folders added during the previous step. Don’t try to run programs directly from your local folder; you need to first copy them to the server's desktop.

Conclusion

That's it! Now you know how to connect to a Windows remote desktop from MacOS via RDP. You can manage your Windows VPS desktop directly from your Mac without issues. Remember to ensure your server's security by using strong passwords and secure connections.