RDP Web Access Made Easy

What is RDP Web Access?

RDP Web Access is a feature of Microsoft Remote Desktop Services that allows users to access remote desktops and applications via a web browser. This technology provides a convenient and platform-independent method for remote access, leveraging the capabilities of HTML5 to deliver a seamless user experience.

Prerequisites for RDP Web Access

Supported Windows Server Versions

RDP Web access is supported on Windows Server devices. Ensure that your PC or server is updated with the latest service packs and security updates to guarantee compatibility and security. Windows Home editions are not supported as the Remote Desktop Protocol is absent on those devices.

Required Roles and Features

To deploy RDP Web Access, the following Remote Desktop Services roles must be installed and configured:

· RD Gateway: Acts as a secure gateway for RDP connections from external networks.

· RD Connection Broker: Manages user sessions, load balancing, and reconnections.

· RD Web Access: Provides the web portal for accessing remote desktops and applications.

Setting Up RDP Web Access

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1.      Install Required Roles:

· Open Server Manager and add the Remote Desktop Services roles (RD Gateway, RD Connection Broker, RD Web Access).

2.      Configure SSL Certificates:

· Obtain SSL certificates from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA).

· Install and configure these certificates on the RD Gateway and RD Web Access roles to secure connections.

3.      Set Up Remote Desktop Licensing:

· Configure the Remote Desktop License Server and ensure it is properly reporting and managing licenses.

· Choose between per-user and per-device licensing based on your organization's needs.

4.      Configure Network Settings:

· Ensure adequate bandwidth and low latency for optimal performance.

· Configure firewalls to allow traffic on HTTPS (port 443) and RDP (port 3389).

Accessing the RDP Web Client

Once setup is complete, provide users with the URL to access the RDP Web Client through their preferred web browser. Ensure the browser is updated to the latest version for the best performance.

Advanced Configuration and Troubleshooting

Load Balancing and Session Persistence

Implement load balancing to ensure smooth operation during peak times and configure session persistence settings to enhance the user experience in a multi-server environment. Use the RD Connection Broker to distribute the load and maintain session continuity.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

· Connectivity Problems: Verify network settings and SSL configurations.

· Certificate Errors: Ensure that SSL certificates are valid and correctly installed.

· Performance Issues: Check bandwidth and latency and optimise network settings accordingly.

Security Best Practices for RDP Web Access

Multi-Factor Authentication

Implement two factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security. 2FA or MFA reduce the risk of unauthorised access even if credentials are compromised.

Regular Updates and Patch Management

Keep your RDP Web Access environment secure by regularly applying updates and patches to all software components. This minimises vulnerabilities and protects against new threats.

Monitoring and Logging

Monitor remote access sessions and maintain logs to detect and respond to suspicious activities. Use tools like TSplus Advanced Security for enhanced monitoring and threat detection.

Secure Configuration

· Use strong passwords and enforce password policies.

· Limit access to necessary users and roles .

· Regularly review and update security settings.

Enhancing Remote Access with TSplus

For organizations seeking advanced features and a user-friendly setup, TSplus offers a powerful alternative to traditional RDS setups with Remote Access. Indeed, the software enables a variety of remote connectivity possibilities, from RDP to web only, from full desktop to application only, publishing legacy applications at the drop of a hat. Teamed with robust security measures from TSplus Advanced Security, comprehensive support tools from Remote Support and intuitive management tools with Server Monitoring, TSplus enhances remote desktop and application access capabilities.

Client Side with TSplus

Microsoft Windows versions 7 onwards are fully supported. If you are connecting from MacOS, you can use any Mac RDP client or the TSplus HTML5 client. Similarly, you can use Rdesktop or the TSplus HTML5 client to connect from Linux.

Installation and Configuration of TSplus Remote Access

For a brief setup guide, Our quick start guide is perfect. Should you need further information, all TSplus software is well documented and fully described online and you can access it from different parts of the quick-start guide page.

To Conclude on RDP Web Access with TSplus

By following this guide, you can effectively deploy, secure and manage RDP Web Access, providing reliable seamless remote access for your organizations. Visit TSplus.net To explore how our software can transform your remote access strategy. Try TSplus for free for 15 days.