How to Access a Remote PC Windows Behind a Modem & Switch

Most broadband modems do not include a firewall feature to protect your computer.

Microsoft Windows operating systems include a large number of networking features that enable remote access both to and from the computer. The Windows Remote Desktop feature provides access to the remote Windows computer desktop and shared files even through the Windows Firewall. Use the Windows Remote Desktop feature to access a computer that is connected directly to the Internet through a switch and modem.

Things You'll Need

• Two CAT6 patch cables
• Network switch equipped with an uplink port
• Broadband modem that has active Internet service that features dynamic IP addressing (DHCP)

Instructions

1. Plug one end of a CAT6 patch cable into the network port of a Windows 7 Remote Desktop service computer. Connect the other end of the CAT6 cable into the port on a network switch.

2. Plug one end of a CAT6 patch cable into an uplink port on the switch connected to the Windows 7 Remote Desktop service computer. Plug the other end of the CAT6 patch cable into the LAN (Local Area Network) port on a broadband modem with active Internet service.

3. Boot the Windows 7 Remote Desktop service computer and click the "Start" button on the Windows desktop. Click the "Search" box and type "cmd" in the field and tap the "Enter" key. Type "ipconfig /all" and tap the "Enter" key. Note the IP address listed for the network adapter connected to the network switch.

4. Click the "Start" button on a Windows 7 client computer. Click "All Programs" and then click "Accessories." Click "Remote Desktop Connection."

5. Type the IP address of the Windows 7 Remote Desktop service computer into the "Computer" text field. Click the "Connect" button.

6. Type the credentials of an account that has permissions to connect to the Windows 7 Remote Desktop service computer into the window that appears and tap the "Enter" key to connect to the Windows 7 Remote Desktop service computer.

References

• Microsoft Support: IPCONFIG Diagnostic Utility: Parameters and Usage