Securing Remote Desktop

With all the emphasis on security for Remote Desktop for Windows XP and Server 2003, here's an easy way to secure Remote Desktop.

Remote Desktop normally runs on port 3389. This is the port the Remote Desktop client connects to on default and this is the port hackers scan to find open Remote Desktop connections. By changing this port number you essentially hide your Remote Desktop connection from hackers who scan port 3389 and no one will be able to connect your computer through Remote Desktop unless they know the port it runs on.

To change the port number Remote Desktop uses you must edit a registry key. The registry key you must edit is located at:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEM/CurrentControlSet/Contr

Digg This!     StumbleUpon     Del.icio.us

RELATED CONTENT Windows XP security issues, updates and alerts How Windows 7 stands up to security tests The state of enterprise security and emerging threats in 2009 A first look at Windows 7 security enhancements How to strike a balance between Windows security and business needs How to recognize and repair Blue Screen of Death stop error messages Ten ways to sell security to management Improve Windows security with our top 10 tips Strategies for troubleshooting Windows XP errors Managing single sign-on security burdens in Windows A Windows security checklist for IT managers Windows desktop security tips How Windows 7 stands up to security tests Securing sensitive data on Windows-based laptops Gathering and documenting your Windows desktop security policies Windows desktop security standards documentation best practices Desktop security preparation for a new wave of Windows apps Four Internet Explorer 8 group policy security settings The state of enterprise security and emerging threats in 2009 Why should Windows shops use Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer? A first look at Windows 7 security enhancements Using Sysinternals tools in security management scenarios

RELATED GLOSSARY TERMS Terms from Whatis.com − the technology online dictionary drive-by download  (SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com)

RELATED RESOURCES 2020software.com, trial software downloads for accounting software, ERP software, CRM software and business software systems Search Bitpipe.com for the latest white papers and business webcasts Whatis.com, the online computer dictionary

ol/Terminal ServerWinStationsRDP-Tcp

This key is stored in a hex value so you must use a decimal to hex conversion tool such as the built in windows calculator (choose your desired port number and convert it to hex before you update the key).

You may need to reboot your computer for the change to take affect and also don't forget to update your firewall if you have one with the new port number.

To connect to your computer through Remote Desktop with an alternate port, enter the IP address or DNS name as you did before with one small modification, add :port number (i.e. if the port is set to 8989: instead of using 192.168.1.1 use 192.168.1.1:8989).

This guide originally appeared on SearchWinSystems.com

Rate this Tip To rate tips, you must be a member of SearchEnterpriseDesktop.com. Register now to start rating these tips. Log in if you are already a member. Submit a Tip DISCLAIMER: Our Tips Exchange is a forum for you to share technical advice and expertise with your peers and to learn from other enterprise IT professionals. TechTarget provides the infrastructure to facilitate this sharing of information. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or validity of the material submitted. You agree that your use of the Ask The Expert services and your reliance on any questions, answers, information or other materials received through this Web site is at your own risk.