What Is RDP?
What RDP Is and How It Works
What is RDP? It is Remote Desktop Protocol, Microsoft's protocol for showing and controlling a computer's graphical desktop from another device over a network. When you connect to a Windows Server with RDP, you see its desktop on your own screen and send keyboard and mouse input as if you were sitting in front of it.
The server sends screen updates to the client, and the client sends input back. Client software is available for Windows, macOS, Linux and mobile devices. By default, RDP listens on TCP port 3389, and remote access must be enabled on the server before anyone can connect.
RDP Compared With SSH on Linux
Linux servers usually offer SSH (Secure Shell) for remote management. SSH is text-based, so you work in a command-line terminal and see no desktop. RDP is graphical, so you see and operate the full desktop with windows, menus and a pointer. The two differ in several ways:
- Interface: RDP shows a graphical desktop, while SSH provides a text terminal.
- Resource use: RDP transmits screen images and needs more bandwidth and server memory, while SSH sends small amounts of text.
- Typical use: RDP suits Windows administration and graphical applications, while SSH suits scripted work and most Linux administration.
Both protocols encrypt their connections. The right choice depends on the tools you need to run. For background on the Linux side, see what SSH is and how it works.
Sessions, Licensing and Remote Desktop Services
A Windows Server allows two simultaneous administrative sessions over RDP without extra licensing, which covers most server management. If many people need to work on the same server at once, such as staff using a shared application, the server needs the Remote Desktop Services role and the matching licenses.
Licensing rules are covered in Windows Server licensing. Choosing the right session model is a planning decision made before the server is built.
Frequently asked questions
Is RDP safe to use over the internet?
RDP is encrypted, but a server that accepts RDP connections from anywhere on the internet is a frequent target for password guessing and exploit attempts. Limiting access to trusted networks, using strong passwords and keeping the system patched reduce that risk. Hardening RDP in depth is a separate topic.
Can several people use RDP on one Windows Server?
Yes, but the number of people depends on licensing and server roles. Two administrators can connect at once without extra licenses. Serving more users needs Remote Desktop Services and the appropriate client access licenses.