Remote desktop sessions, screen sharing, remote control, and file management between Windows computers run through RustDesk. Each device displays an ID and a one-time password, and the client can connect to another computer by entering its ID.
How do you connect to another computer?
The RustDesk home screen shows the local device ID and one-time password, along with a field for entering a remote ID. Share the local details with someone who needs to connect, or enter another device’s ID to start a session. RustDesk connects through its public servers by default; the client can also be configured to use a privately hosted RustDesk server.
Remote sessions support screen viewing and control. The settings include permissions for people connecting to the computer, along with password options and controls for changing the device ID.
Which settings affect a remote session?
RustDesk groups its controls into settings areas for General, Security, Network, Display, Account, and About. Display options cover the remote-session view and defaults, including whether to synchronize the clipboard. General settings include audio, recording, hardware codec, theme, language, and service control.
Security settings let the device owner manage permissions and password behavior. Network settings hold the server configuration, while the Account area supports signing in when connected to RustDesk Server Pro.
- Use Display settings to adjust session presentation and clipboard synchronization.
- Use Security settings to manage remote-control permissions and password options.
- Use Network settings to configure server connection details.
Can RustDesk use a server you host?
Yes. RustDesk can connect through its public servers or through a self-hosted RustDesk Server. To point a client to your own server, open Network settings, unlock the network fields, and enter the ID, relay, and key information; an API address can also be entered when using Server Pro.
This setup lets an organization route connections through infrastructure it operates. RustDesk also supports custom clients, including options to change client branding, and a web client that can be hosted on a server.
Pros
- Connect by device ID with a one-time password
- Configure the client to use a self-hosted RustDesk server
- Session settings include display options and clipboard synchronization
System requirements: Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, Windows 10, Windows 11
What information is needed to start a RustDesk session?
The remote device’s ID is needed to connect. The local device displays its ID and one-time password for someone connecting to it.
Can RustDesk synchronize the clipboard during a session?
Yes. Clipboard synchronization is available in the Display settings.
Can the client connect to a privately hosted RustDesk server?
Yes. Configure the server details in Network settings, including the ID, relay, and key.
