How to Transfer Files from RDP to PC Fast?

How to Transfer Files from RDP to PC - Common Methods

Using the clipboard

One of the simplest ways to transfer files from RDP to a PC is by using the clipboard. First, select the files you want to transfer in the RDP session and copy them to the clipboard (CTRL + C). Then, switch to your local PC and paste the files from the clipboard (CTRL + V) into the desired folder. This method works best for small files or small amounts of data.

While clipboard redirection allows quick file copy-paste operations between the RDP session and the local PC, it is generally limited to small files and may not support complex file structures or large data sets.

If clipboard redirection isn't working, verify that it's enabled on both the server and client sides under RDP session settings, and check for conflicts with third-party security software that may block clipboard access.

Using the drag and drop feature

Another simple way to transfer files is by using the drag and drop feature. In the RDP session, select the files you want to transfer and drag them to the desired location on your local PC. This method is also suitable for small files and folders.

Using a shared drive or folder

Another way to transfer files is by setting up a shared drive or folder between the RDP session and your local PC.

First, create a shared drive or folder on your local PC. Then configure it to allow access from the RDP session.

Then, access the shared drive or folder from the RDP session. Here, copy or move the files you want to transfer to the shared drive or folder.

Finally, switch to your local PC and access the shared drive or folder to retrieve the transferred files.

Using Remote Desktop Manager

Remote Desktop Manager is a popular tool that allows users to manage multiple remote connections and transfer files between them.

To transfer files from an RDP session to a local PC using Remote Desktop Manager, first, open the RDP session in the tool. Then, select the files you want to transfer and drag them to the desired location on your local PC.

Remote Desktop Manager will automatically transfer the files from the RDP session to your local PC.

Using third-party tools

Finally, there are several third-party tools available that can help transfer files from an RDP session to a local PC. These tools range from simple file transfer utilities to more advanced remote access solutions. Some popular tools include FileZilla, WeTransfer, and Beyond Compare.

Using third-party file transfer tools may require opening additional ports or installing client software, which could conflict with existing security policies or firewall settings.

How to Transfer Files from RDP to PC Fast - Why Copy? Simply Access!

No doubt these ways to transfer files from an RDP session to a local PC will come in useful. Depending on the size and number of files, the available tools and methods can vary. So, you may use the clipboard, drag and drop, a shared drive, Remote Desktop Manager, or third-party tools. Anyhow, the process of transferring files should be fast and efficient.

TSplus Remote Access allows users to securely access their remote desktops from anywhere in the world. One of the essential features of TSplus is in fact the ability to use or transfer files, from the remote desktop on the local PC. As you will see in our documentation, you can use the above methods to transfer files between devices. Nonetheless, you can also simply access what you need from afar. This avoids overloading your local machine, especially if it is a light tablet or smartphone.

Security Best Practices

When transferring files from a Remote Desktop session to a local PC, security must be a top priority. Improper configurations or insecure transfer methods can expose sensitive data, compromise endpoints, or open the door to unauthorized access. In this section, we explore key security best practices for safely transferring files over RDP—ensuring both performance and protection for enterprise environments.

Use Encrypted RDP Sessions Only

Ensure all RDP sessions are encrypted with TLS (Transport Layer Security). By default, RDP uses encryption, but it is essential to confirm that strong encryption levels are enforced.

• Enable Network Level Authentication (NLA) to require user authentication before a full RDP session is established.
• Configure Group Policy settings to use "High Level" or "FIPS-compliant" encryption for RDP connections.
• Consider using a VPN or SSL gateway in combination with RDP to add an additional encryption layer for external access.

Limit File Transfer Permissions

Restrict file transfer capabilities based on user roles and business needs.

• Disable clipboard redirection for users who don’t require it, to prevent unintended data leakage.
• Control drive redirection through Group Policy to limit which local drives can be accessed from the remote session.
• In environments using TSplus Remote Access, leverage built-in access control settings to enforce strict file sharing rules per user or group.

Monitor and Audit Transfer Activity

Implement logging and auditing to track file transfers and detect anomalies.

• Enable Windows Event Logging for RDP sessions to monitor session start/end times and redirection usage.
• Deploy third-party SIEM tools (e.g., Splunk, Graylog) to correlate file transfer activities with user behavior.
• If using TSplus features like FileTransfer.exe or HTML5 File Transfer, ensure logs are collected and periodically reviewed.

Apply Endpoint Security and Data Loss Prevention (DLP)

Both the remote host and the local client should have endpoint protection and DLP mechanisms in place.

• Use antivirus and antimalware tools that scan files as they are transferred or opened.
• Implement DLP software to flag or block unauthorized transfers of sensitive file types (e.g., financial records, customer data).
• Use file access restrictions on the server-side to prevent users from exporting or modifying critical system files.

Educate Users and Enforce Usage Policies

Even in IT-managed environments, human error remains a leading cause of data breaches.

• Provide training on secure file handling practices, including the use of trusted applications and avoiding public Wi-Fi when accessing RDP.
• Create and enforce acceptable use policies around remote file access and data transfers.
• Perform regular audits to ensure policy adherence and address non-compliance proactively.

Standard Ways to Transfer Files with TSplus Remote Access

Clipboard

As we saw above, one of the simplest ways to transfer files using TSplus is by using the Clipboard. The Clipboard is a feature of the remote desktop that allows users to copy and paste text and files between the remote desktop and the local PC. If you need more information on how to use the Clipboard with TSplus, please see this link: html5-client-using-clipboard or you can further search our documentation.

Shared File

The option of setting up a shared drive or folder is also available with Remote Access. According to the TSplus documentation, this method is more suitable for larger files or larger amounts of data. For more information on how to set up a shared drive or folder using TSplus, please see this link: folder.

TSplus File Transfer Feature – Faster and More Secure

TSplus File Transfer Tool

Another option available with TSplus is to use the TSplus File Transfer tool. This tool is designed to transfer files quickly and easily between the remote desktop and the local PC. This works with workstations, PCs, servers or mobile devices. The File Transfer tool is available for TSplus Web Portal and other modes of connection.

To use the File Transfer tool, simply open the tool. Once it is launched, you will see a standard folder tree where you can browse the folders and files you may access.

Select the file or files you want to transfer. Then, select the destination folder on your local PC and click the "Transfer" button. You can send to server or send to client.

For more information on how to use the TSplus File Transfer tool, especially for specifics concerning device to server transfers when connecting via HTML5, please see here: file-transfer.

Why Transfer or Copy? Simply Open!

Open File on Client Side

With TSplus Remote Access, you have the option to open your files on client side. This features takes configuring but the best thing about it is this: you will be able to open your file remotely regardless of whether you have the relevant software installed on the client device. Indeed, open an MS Office document without Office on your tablet, or Excel even though you only have it on your server.

TSplus gives you the freedom to use your applications and files wherever you are, at the drop of a hat. Moreover, “open file on client side” does away with data issues. Thus, the file remains on the remote device unless the user makes the choice to save it locally.

Conclusion

In conclusion, TSplus offers wider options for transferring files between the remote desktop and the local PC than basic RDS. Whether you choose to use the Clipboard, set up a shared drive or folder, or use the TSplus File Transfer tool, the process should be fast, secure, and efficient.

For more information on how to use TSplus Remote Access to transfer files, please follow the links provided above. Our software suite can be downloaded for a 15 day fully-featured free trial. The best way to adopt TSplus is to test it.

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