In this tutorial, we will show you how to connect to your Windows VPS using a Mac computer. This method will work for Mac computers with versions from Mac OS Lion to MacOS Sonoma.
Here are the requirements before we begin.
- Your VPS credentials
- A Mac computer that is compatible with the Microsoft Remote Desktop app
- An internet connection
The application would allow you to connect to your Windows VPS.
You can easily connect to your Windows VPS using the Microsoft Remote Desktop. Either search for it in the App Store or just use the link provided below.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/microsoft-remote-desktop/id1295203466?mt=12
This client supports multiple Remote Desktop Protocol connections. Therefore you have the option to connect to multiple Windows VPS simultaneously.
Steps to Configure Remote Desktop for Your Windows VPS
1) Install the Microsoft Remote Desktop application.
2) Once, the application is installed, you would need to open the app
3) Once it opens, click on “Add PC”.
4) In the prompt, you have to enter the IP address of your Windows VPS in the “PC name” field. You can enter a suitable name in the “Friendly name” as well. Afterwards, click on Add.
NOTE: The hostname provided with your VPS doesn't resolve to your IP and wouldn't work. In the Friendly name field, you may use any name you see fit.
5) In the User Account Dropdown, select “Add User Account”.
6) A popup will appear requesting your username and password. If you have defined another user session inside your Windows VPS, you may use that username but the default one is “Administrator”. Next, type the password you entered when installing Windows VPS and click “Add”.
7) Now you can double click on your VPS’s shortcut in the list and it will open.
That's it! You should be connected to your Windows VPS.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Can’t connect to the VPS:
Login to your VPS control panel and ensure it is online.
Make sure the firewall settings on the VPS allow RDP traffic. The default RDP port is 3389, and it should be open in both Windows Firewall by default. If you have changed it, you would need to change the IP in the Remote Desktop Mac App to yourIP:port
To check if the RDP port is open:
- Log into the VPS through the emergency console access and open Windows Firewall.
- Navigate to Inbound Rules and look for the rule named Remote Desktop (TCP-In).
- Make sure it is enabled and applies to the correct network profile.
Incorrect credentials
- Double-check your username (usually “Administrator”) and password provided upon delivery.
- Ultimately, you may reset your VPS password directly from your control panel.
Blocked or unreachable VPS
- Check on your Windows VPS status from your Manager if there are any issues with the VPS or if the RDP service is blocked by their security settings. If after following these steps the issue persist, you may directly open a support ticket.
Mac-specific display issues
- In the Microsoft Remote Desktop settings, you can adjust display resolution or keyboard preferences if the remote session doesn’t behave as expected.
- Ensure the Remote Desktop app is up to date by checking the Mac App Store for any updates.
Additional Tips
- Security Considerations: If you plan on accessing your VPS frequently, consider setting up an SSH tunnel or a VPN connection for added security.
- Alternate RDP Clients: If you don’t like Microsoft Remote Desktop, you can try third-party RDP clients such as Royal TSX or Jump Desktop.
- Older Mac OS Versions: If you are looking to connect to from an older Mac OS X version while not supported here is a guide that will walk you through the how.
Remember, if you need further assistance, you can alwaysopen a support ticket from your client area.