Using remote desktop is a convenient way to get access to an office computer or server from home or while on the go. However, when using remote desktop, you may need to use multiple monitors to increase your productivity or to view multiple applications at the same time. Dual monitors can really be a gamechanger. In this article, we will discuss how to use dual monitors with Remote Desktop on Windows 10.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before we get started, make sure you have a few things ready:
- A Windows 10 computer with remote desktop access
- At least two monitors attached to the remote Windows 10 computer
- A steady internet connection with enough bandwidth to support two monitors
What Requires Your Focus?
Using dual monitors can improve your productivity and allows you to keep different applications open side by side. However, setting it up on remote desktop can be a bit confusing for new users. While it is possible, you do need to ensure that both your local computer and remote computer support multiple monitors. Additionally, if your internet connection is not stable or is slow, you may face lag or display issues.
Different Methods to Use Dual Monitors with Remote Desktop Windows 10
Method 1: Via Remote Desktop Connection
Steps:
1. Open Remote Desktop Connection on your local computer.
2. Enter the IP address or hostname of the remote Windows 10 computer and click Connect.
3. Enter your login credentials for the remote computer and click OK.
4. In the Remote Desktop window, click on the Show Options button at the bottom.
5. Select the Display tab.
6. Under Display configuration, select the option "Use all my monitors for the remote session".
7. Click Connect to start the remote session.
8. Once connected, rearrange and resize the application windows across both monitors as needed.
Pros:
– Easy to set up with Remote Desktop Connection
– No additional software needed
Cons:
– May require a stable internet connection for the best display quality
– Only works if both the local and remote computers support multiple monitors
Method 2: Using Remote Desktop App for Windows 10
Steps:
1. Download and install the Remote Desktop app on your local Windows 10 computer from the Microsoft Store.
2. Open the Remote Desktop app.
3. Click on Add PC (the + symbol) and enter the IP address or hostname of the remote computer you want to connect to.
4. Enter your login credentials for the remote computer and click Save.
5. Click on the remote computer tile to start the remote session.
6. Once connected, use the taskbar at the top to click on the "Expand to all monitors" button.
7. Rearrange and resize the application windows across both monitors as needed.
Pros:
– The Remote Desktop app is designed for Windows 10 and supports touch inputs, making it easier to use on tablets and touch screen devices
– Can adjust resolution and display options easily
Cons:
– Requires installation of the Remote Desktop app on your local computer
– May not work well with older versions of Windows and macOS
Method 3: Using Third-Party Software
Steps:
1. Download and install a third-party software such as TeamViewer or AnyDesk.
2. Start a remote session with the remote Windows 10 computer using the third-party software.
3. If you are using TeamViewer, click on the "View" menu and select "Use all displays for remote session". If you are using AnyDesk, click on the "View" menu and select "Multiple Monitors".
4. Rearrange and resize the application windows across both monitors as needed.
Pros:
– Third-party software can provide additional features and customization options
– Can work with a wider range of operating systems
Cons:
– May not be as secure as using native Remote Desktop or Remote Desktop app
– Some third-party software may require a paid subscription for use
Why Can’t I Use Dual Monitors with Remote Desktop on Windows 10?
1. Unstable internet connection: This can cause lag and display issues when using dual monitors on remote desktop.
Fix: Ensure your internet connection is strong and stable before attempting to use dual monitors on remote desktop.
2. Unsupported hardware: Your local or remote computer may not support multiple monitors.
Fix: Check your computer specifications and ensure both your local and remote computers support multiple monitors.
3. Incorrect display settings: The display settings on your local or remote computer may not be correctly configured.
Fix: Go to display settings and ensure that your monitors are detected and configured correctly.
Implications and Recommendations
Using dual monitors on remote desktop can vastly improve your productivity, especially when working remotely. However, it is important to ensure that both your local and remote computers support multiple monitors and that your internet connection is stable. If you frequently use remote desktop with multiple monitors, consider investing in a high-quality remote access software that supports multiple monitors.
5 FAQs about Using Dual Monitors with Remote Desktop Windows 10
Q1: Can I use two different sized monitors with remote desktop?
A: Yes, you can use two different sized monitors with remote desktop, but you may experience issues with scaling.
Q2: How do I switch between monitors during a remote session?
A: To switch between monitors during a remote session, simply click on the "Monitor" button on the toolbar and select the monitor you want to switch to.
Q3: Will using dual monitors on remote desktop affect the performance of my local computer?
A: No, using dual monitors on remote desktop will not affect the performance of your local computer.
Q4: Can I use dual monitors on remote desktop with a Mac?
A: Yes, you can use dual monitors on remote desktop with a Mac as long as both your local and remote computers support multiple monitors.
Q5: How do I resize my application windows across both monitors?
A: To resize your application windows across both monitors, simply click on the top of the window and drag it to the desired size and location on either monitor.
Final Words
Using dual monitors with remote desktop can really boost your productivity and make your remote work experience more efficient. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily set up dual monitors with remote desktop on your Windows 10 computer. Remember to ensure that both your local and remote computers support multiple monitors and that your internet connection is stable before attempting to use dual monitors on remote desktop.