How To Remotely Control Your PC With Your Android Phone

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How to Remotely Control Your PC With Your Android Phone

Want to use remote desktop to access your PC from your Android phone? Here are the best
ways to do that.
BY CHRISTIAN CAWLEY UPDATED MAY 18, 2021
Readers like you help support MUO. When you make a purchase using links on our site, we may earn an a�liate commission.
Read More.
Need to connect to your home PC from an Android device? If the PC is running Windows,
you've got a couple of good options to make this happen. But no matter what mobile or
desktop OS you use, remote access is possible.
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How to Remotely Control Your PC With Your Android Phone https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/remotely-control-computer-phone/
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In just a few moments, you can have remote access to your home PC from the comfort
of your phone or tablet, from anywhere in the world. Keep reading to learn how to control
your PC from a phone.
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What Is Remote Desktop?
Remote desktop is a means to remotely control another computer. Several variations on

the idea are available, using either proprietary software or one of two mainstream
technologies:
• Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP): Created by Microsoft, this requires client and
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server software on the home and remote devices. Clients are available for most
operating systems, and the server software is built into Windows 10. RDP server
software for Linux is also available.
• Virtual Network Computing (VNC): Relying on the Remote Framebuffer (RFB)
protocol, VNC works with Windows, macOS, and Linux desktop environments that
use the X Window System.
Other popular technologies that you might have used include ICA (Independent
Computing Architecture, developed by Citrix), HP Remote Graphics Software, or even
SSH with X11 forwarding if you require remote access to a Linux desktop.
If you've been on the receiving end of a remote desktop connection, however, the
engineer might have used TeamViewer or LogMeIn, or any number of other services.
These typically use a proprietary technology (one developed purely by or for that service)
or one of those mentioned above.
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But it isn't just PC-to-PC connections you can set up. It's even possible to remotely
control your PC with the Android device in your pocket.
Reasons to Remote Desktop Between Phone and PC
I �rst used remote software from a mobile device to my PC back in 2006, using a
Windows Mobile phone to access my computer over mobile internet. In those days, it
was less about productivity and more about the novelty factor.
But why might you want to remotely control your PC from your phone? It could be any
number of reasons:
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• Grabbing an email or attachment that was sent to the wrong address

• Accessing a forgotten �le (perhaps to email it to yourself, or sync to your cloud
storage)
• Enable a media server, such as Plex
• Playing a PC-only video game
• Initiating a Windows Update or software upgrade
• Help a loved one with some remote technical assistance
• Switch off or reboot your PC
Whatever your use case, using remote desktop software between Android and a PC is so
simple, anyone can do it.
Control a PC From a Phone on the Same Network
Just want to easily access your PC from the comfort of your bed or sun lounger? You'll
need a computer with RDP or a VNC server installed.
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Remotely Control Your PC With Android Using RDP
RDP server software is part of Windows 10 and is also available for Linux (using xrdp).
You'll also �nd xrdp for macOS.
If you use Windows, you can use Remote Desktop to control Windows 10 Pro and
Enterprise. This also applies to Windows 8/8.1 Enterprise and Pro, and Windows 7
Professional, Ultimate, and Enterprise.
However, you can't access Home editions (such as Windows 10 Home) using the RDP
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method.
To install an X-compatible RDP server on a Linux PC, open the Terminal and enter:
sudo apt install xrdp
You can install xrdp on macOS, but it requires a lot of work. The xrdp GitHub page will
guide you.
Once you're con�dent that RDP is running on your PC, you'll be able to use the free
Microsoft Remote Desktop app for Android (there's also an iOS version) to connect.
Using the mobile app:
1. Tap + symbol then Desktop to start a new connection

2. Input the target computer IP address or hostname in the PC name �eld
3. Add the user name and password you use to access the computer
4. Tap Save to continue
RELATED:
How To Find Your IP Address On Windows 10
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You can also add things like a Friendly name, Gateway, and con�gure Sound via the
Show additional options menu.
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In the main Remote Desktop menu, tap the icon representing the computer to
commence connection. Moments later, you'll be remotely controlling your PC from your
phone!
Remote Connections Between Android and PC Using VNC
Meanwhile, VNC server software is also readily available for Windows, macOS, and Linux
distributions.
In fact, if you don't have Windows 10 or macOS, VNC is the ideal solution as it has no
restrictions. You can choose from various VNC server and client software packages;
RealVNC is arguably the most popular.
VNC Connect from RealVNC is the VNC server software you'll need. It features VNC
Server and VNC Viewer (a client app) software and is available for Windows, macOS, and
Linux. You'll even �nd a version for the Raspberry Pi.
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Once downloaded and installed, you'll need the VNC Viewer app for Android. There's also
a version for iOS if you need it.
To control your computer with your phone using VNC Connect, �rst install the software
on your PC. When prompted, create a VNC Connect account (or sign into an existing
account). Select Home subscription (allowing up to �ve computers) and set a secure
password. Click Done to �nish.
In the VNC Server window you'll �nd the details you need to keep handy. The Identity
check section lists some details you'll need to match with the client software if
prompted. There's also a Change password button should you need to set a new
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password.
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When you're ready to remote connect to your PC:
1. Open the VNC Viewer app on your phone

2. Sign in with the account credentials and verify when prompted
3. Tap the computer you set up to commence the remote session
4. Quickly match the catchphrase and signature from the Identity Check section in the
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VNC Server window on your computer (too slow and it will time out)
5. Enter the password to establish the connection
The app will display some control details (�nger-based gestures). Once you've
familiarized yourself with this, you can exit and start remote controlling your PC.
To end the connection, tap the X button in the top-right corner, or close the app in the
usual way.
How to Connect to Your PC Across the Internet
Looking for a solution that you can use from outside your home network? While RDP and
VNC both work beyond your network, it's unlikely that you pay for a static IP address
from your internet provider.
Instead of worrying about setting up a personal VPN and forwarding router ports to your
PC, a smarter solution is employing a third-party service to connect remotely to your
computer from your smartphone.
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Android users can enjoy apps from TeamViewer, Splashtop, LogMeIn, GoToMyPC, and
various other remote services.
RELATED:
Best Screen Sharing And Remote Desktop Software
You've possibly seen these in action at work, when tech support uses remote software
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to �x problems on your computer. The beauty of these tools is that they're easy to set
up.
Simply install the remote server software on your computer, download the client app on
your phone, and initiate a remote connection. Note that you may need to con�gure a few
settings to automatically accept those connections.
Remote Control a PC With Your Phone Using Chrome Remote Desktop
With the Chrome Remote Desktop browser extension for Google Chrome on your PC,
and the companion app installed on your Android phone (or iOS device) you have
another option for remote connection beyond your home network.
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Using a PIN-based authentication system, you can remote control your PC if it's running
Google Chrome. It's also possible to use this method from other computers, if the
Chrome Remote Desktop app is installed.
Our guide to using Chrome Remote Desktop features full steps for setup and using it
with Android and iOS.  Subscribe to our newsletter
Now You Know How to Remotely Control Your PC With Your Phone
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These three methods of connecting to a Windows PC from an Android or iPhone device
let you maximize your productivity.
RELATED TOPICS
WINDOWS ANDROID REMOTE DESKTOP REMOTE ACCESS VNC ANDROID TIPS
It's ideal for getting hold of a missing �le, enabling media server software on your PC,
SMARTPHONE TIPS
and much more. Better still, this works whether you're on the same network (using RDP
or VNC) or you're in a completely different location (thanks to specialist remote access
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
software).
Christian Cawley • Deputy Editor
(1742 Articles Published)
Whatever your reasons for wanting remote access to your PC, be sure to use a secure
Deputy Editor for Security, Linux, DIY, Programming, and Tech Explained, Christian has extensive experience in desktop
internet connection. If this isn't possible, consider using a VPN to keep your connection
and software support, and has been published in Computer Weekly, Linux Format, Tech Radar, ComputerActive, and…
protected. Our recommended option is ExpressVPN, which is available for a 49%
discount to MakeUseOf readers using this link.
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HOME  PRODUCTIVITY
How to Host a Microsoft Teams Meeting on Desktop or

Mobile
Microsoft Teams is one of the best tools to stay in touch while working from home. Here's
how to set up a meeting on it!
BY JOY OKUMOKO PUBLISHED MAY 9, 2021
Readers like you help support MUO. When you make a purchase using links on our site, we may earn an a�liate commission.
Read More.
Want to host an online video meeting, interview, or walkthrough session? Are you
planning to use a Zoom alternative instead like Microsoft Teams, but aren't sure where to
start?
This article explains how to host your own Microsoft Teams meeting on a desktop or a
mobile device. Using Microsoft Teams, you can create, connect, share, and collaborate
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with family and friends online.
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What You Need to Host a Microsoft Teams Meeting
You can start a Microsoft Teams meeting using your computer or smartphone, provided
they meet the following minimum system requirements.
Windows
3.0 GB of available disk space, 4.0 GB of RAM, 1024 x 768 screen resolution, Windows
8.1 and later.
Mac
1.5 GB of free disk space, 4.0 GB of RAM, 1280 x 800 or higher resolution, latest macOS,
and its two most recent predecessors.
Linux
3.0 GB of usable disk space, 4.0 GB of RAM, 1024 x 768 screen resolution plus 128 MB
of graphics memory, Linux distribution OS with DEB or RPM.
Android
Google's latest version of Android or at least the past three versions of it.
iOS
iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch with most recent iOS or penultimate version.
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How to Organize a Microsoft Teams Meeting With Desktop App
You can use the desktop client, a web browser, or the mobile app to host a Teams
meeting, regardless of whether you have a Teams account. Here's how to do it.
Download: Teams for Windows, Linux, and Mac (Free)
Microsoft Teams Start a Chat or Meet Now
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1. Launch Microsoft Teams desktop app.

2. Click on either Start a chat or Meet now if using for the �rst time.
3. Click on the Calendar icon in the vertical tab to the left to schedule a meeting.
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Microsoft Teams pick a date and time
4. Click to pick a date and time for your meeting. (For example, 11 AM on Wednesday,
May 5th)
5. Fill in the details according to the meeting, including the title, date, time, duration,
location, and agenda.
Microsoft Teams meeting details �lled
6. Click Save when done.

7. You should see a pop-up dialog box like the one below.
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Microsoft Teams meeting created
8. Click on the Copy link to share the meeting link manually by email, social media, etc.
9. Or, click on Google Calendar to send via Google's calendar. This may launch a new
browser window.
Microsoft Teams Meeting share to participants
10. All the details will be pre-�lled, plus the link to join the meeting will now be visible.
11. In the right pane, under Guests, click on Add guests to add participants to the
meeting. Guests will be suggested from your contact list, or you can manually type in
their details.
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12. You can also set Guest permissions by checking the appropriate boxes.
13. Click on Save. The following dialog box will pop up.
Microsoft Teams invite by email
14. Click Send.

15. The recipient will receive an email with the link to join.
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Alternatively:
1. Launch the Microsoft Teams desktop client.

2. Click on the camcorder icon in the Chat pane at the top left corner to start a New
Meeting, or click on the chat icon to start a chat meeting. We click on New meeting.
Another way to create Microsoft Teams meeting via dektop client
3. The following pop-up dialog box will appear. Fill in the Meeting name.
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Start a Microsoft Teams video meeting
4. Click on Get a link to share with the meeting participants.

5. This will generate a meeting link. Click on the copy icon to share the link manually, or
click on Share via email.
6. You can also click on Start meeting if you have already sent the meeting invite to
participants and don't need a new meeting link.
7. Click on Join Now.
8. Select how you want to Invite people to join you in the meeting.
Microsoft Teams invite people to join you
9. Click on the Copy meeting link to copy the link to the clipboard and share with
participants manually, or
10. Click on Add participants to add them yourself, or
11. Click on Share via default email to share links with participants via email.
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RELATED:
How To Join A Microsoft Teams Meeting
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Alternatively,
1. Launch Microsoft Teams desktop app.
Another way to create Microsoft Teams meeting via dektop client
2. Click on the call button to start an Audio call.
Microsof Teams meeting via Audio call
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3. The recipients can join the meeting by clicking on Accept on their devices.
4. You can also add other participants to the call by clicking on the group icon to Show
participants.
5. Enter their names to add them to the call.
6. Click on Leave to end the call.
This Audio call method does not require a meeting link.
How to Host a Microsoft Teams Meeting With Web App
Open your web browser of choice.
1. Go to Microsoft Teams website.
Microsoft Teams log-in page
2. Click on Sign in.

3. You will be prompted to download the Windows app. Click Use the web app instead.
4. If you're not on Teams yet, click on Sign up for Teams.
5. A new window will open. Click on Sign up for free.
6. Fill in your Microsoft account login credentials.
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Microsoft Teams web app set up
7. Select how you want to use Teams, then click on Next.

8. You should now be logged in to your Teams account.
Microsoft Teams join meeting
9. Click Join to start your meeting, or click on the link icon to copy the meeting link.
10. You can also start the meeting by clicking the Your meeting is created link to Join
the conversation.
11. If using the web app for the �rst time, it will ask for permission access.
Microsoft-Teams-web-app-permission-accessMicrosoft-Teams-web-app-permission-
access
12. Click on Allow or Block as needed.
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13. Click Join now to start your meeting.

14. Follow the same steps outlined earlier to add other participants to the meeting.
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How to Host a Microsoft Teams Meeting Using a Mobile App

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Microsoft Teams meeting open app Microsoft Teams meeting set meeting name and start
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Microsoft Teams meeting share meeting link
Download: Teams for Android | iOS (Free)
To schedule a Microsoft Teams meeting using the mobile app,
1. Launch the Microsoft Teams app on your smartphone.

2. Tap on Meet now.
3. Type in the Meeting name.
4. Tap on the Copy meeting link to share with other participants.
5. Tap on Start meeting.
6. Tap on Join now.
7. To add participants to the meeting, tap on Add participants.
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8. Or, tap on the Share meeting invites to ask participants to join the meeting.
9. Choose how you want to share the message, whether via Nearby Share, Email,
Teams, WhatsApp, Facebook, etc.
10. It will send a pre-written invitation message containing the meeting link to all the
people you select. You can edit the invitation message. Hit Send.
Alternatively:
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Microsoft Teams meeting open app Microsoft Teams meeting via Audio call
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RELATED TOPICS
PRODUCTIVITY REMOTE WORK MEETINGS VIDEO CONFERENCING MICROSOFT TEAMS
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Microsoft Teams meeting new Audio call on mobile app
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Joy Okumoko
(203 Articles Published)
Joy is an internet and technology writer at MUO. She has over two years of writing experience covering everyday
technology for various tech publications.
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To start an Audio call meeting,
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1. Open the Teams app.

2. On the bottom toolbar, tap on the three dots or More button.
3. In the pop-up menu, tap on Calls.
4. Tap on the new call button (telephone with a + sign) to start an Audio call.
5. Enter the participant(s) name(s) in the Search for people search bar.
6. Tap on the call button to start the Audio call meeting.
7. You can also add other participants to the conversation.
8. Click on the end call button to end the Audio call.
This does not require a link to join, provided the participants are on stand-by.
Pre-Requisites for a Successful Teams Meeting
Microsoft Teams can help you organize a successful team meeting. Ensure that the
meeting link and system requirements are sent in advance so that participants have
enough time to prepare and test run the platform.
Right away after the meeting starts, share the ground rules for the meeting. Also, include
instructions on proper online meeting etiquette, such as turning the mic off when not
speaking.
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How To Remotely Control Your PC With Your Android Phone

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How to Remotely Control Your PC With Your Android Phone https://www.makeuseof.

How to Remotely Control Your PC With Your Android Phone

What Is Remote Desktop?

Remote desktop is a means to remotely control another computer. Several variations on

Reasons to Remote Desktop Between Phone and PC

• Grabbing an email or attachment that was sent to the wrong address

Control a PC From a Phone on the Same Network

Remotely Control Your PC With Android Using RDP

sudo apt install xrdp

Using the mobile app:

1. Tap + symbol then Desktop to start a new connection

Remote Connections Between Android and PC Using VNC

When you're ready to remote connect to your PC:

1. Open the VNC Viewer app on your phone

How to Connect to Your PC Across the Internet

Remote Control a PC With Your Phone Using Chrome Remote Desktop

If you could automate one household chore, what would it be?

Vacuuming and mopping

Wiping and sanitizing surfaces

Other (Leave a comment)

Vote View Results

Discuss This Poll

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TWITTER

How to Protect Your Privacy When Using ChatGPT for Work

5 Ways to Use ChatGPT Without an OpenAI Account

Is the Turing Test Outdated? 5 Turing Test Alternatives

How to Host a Microsoft Teams Meeting on Desktop or

with family and friends online.

What You Need to Host a Microsoft Teams Meeting

How to Organize a Microsoft Teams Meeting With Desktop App

Download: Teams for Windows, Linux, and Mac (Free)

Microsoft Teams Start a Chat or Meet Now

1. Launch Microsoft Teams desktop app.

Microsoft Teams pick a date and time

Microsoft Teams meeting details �lled

6. Click Save when done.

Microsoft Teams meeting created

Microsoft Teams Meeting share to participants

Microsoft Teams invite by email

14. Click Send.

1. Launch the Microsoft Teams desktop client.

Another way to create Microsoft Teams meeting via dektop client

Start a Microsoft Teams video meeting

4. Click on Get a link to share with the meeting participants.

Microsoft Teams invite people to join you

1. Launch Microsoft Teams desktop app.

Another way to create Microsoft Teams meeting via dektop client

2. Click on the call button to start an Audio call.

Microsof Teams meeting via Audio call

This Audio call method does not require a meeting link.

How to Host a Microsoft Teams Meeting With Web App

Open your web browser of choice.

1. Go to Microsoft Teams website.

Microsoft Teams log-in page

2. Click on Sign in.

Microsoft Teams web app set up

7. Select how you want to use Teams, then click on Next.

Microsoft Teams join meeting

12. Click on Allow or Block as needed.

13. Click Join now to start your meeting.

How to Host a Microsoft Teams Meeting Using a Mobile App

Microsoft Teams meeting share meeting link

Download: Teams for Android | iOS (Free)