RDP or Remote Desktop Protocol is better defined as a secure network communication protocol that is designed to ensure flexible remote management with easy access to virtual desktops, RDP terminal servers, and many applications.
With RDP, network administrators can stay connected to the individual subscribers at the far end of the world to solve their issues. RDP is currently available to work with several versions of Windows OS. Users can also access this protocol on macOS. One can go online and access the open-source version to get started with instant access.
Basic Architecture of RDP
RDP is better defined as an extension of ITU T.120 series of protocols. This multiple-channel protocol allows users to collect data from different virtual channels. It allows device communication, data presentation from the server, keyboard data transmission, and encrypted client mouse connectivity. RDP has an extensible base that can support more than 64,000 separate channels for data transmission. Users can also find an option for multipoint transmission.
On the server-side, RDP makes use of its personal video drivers to render output on the display while constructing the available rendering information in the form of network packets. With the help of RDP protocols, the system sends the data over the network so that it can reach up to the client on the other end. If we talk about the client side, RDP receives the rendering data sent by the server and then interpret those packets to get desirable API calls for graphic device interface on Microsoft Windows. The input path is made up of client mouse and keyboard events that are directly transferred to the server-side on the network. RCT-TCP connection settings are used within this environment to ensure easy enabling and disabling of various variables.
Incredible Features of RDP
Microsoft RDP comes with a wide range of features, few of them are listed below:
Encryption:
RDP makes use of the RC4 cipher method designed by RSA Security. This stream cipher follows an advanced encryption system that can handle a small amount of data very well. It ensures secure communications on the network while making sure that data is encrypted with a 56-128 bit key. It means all data transfers between server and client are well protected and safe from hacker’s attack.
Bandwidth reduction features:
RDP is capable enough to support a variety of mechanisms for handling data transmission on the network. It may include persistent caching, data compression, fragments of RAM, and caching of glyphs. Note that, persistent bitmap cache ensures substantial growth in performance even with low bandwidth connections. This solution is widely recommended for large bitmap-based applications.
Roaming disconnect:
Users on the RDP network are allowed to disconnect manually from the remote desktop without even logging off their ID. Whenever needed, they can simply log back to the system and get automatically connected to the previously disconnected session. The reconnection can be performed from a different device or the same device. In case if the user session gets terminated due to the client or network failure, it simply leads to disconnection without logging off client ID.
Clipboard mapping:
With RDP network, users can copy, paste, and delete text while adjusting graphics between various applications that are running on remote desktop, local computer, or in between these sessions. It enhances communication between server and client while enabling easy data handling on the network.
Virtual channels:
Using RDP virtual channel architecture, it is possible to augment existing applications while developing the new one with additional features. The new developments are expected to provide enhanced support between client device and applications that are working on a remote desktop.
Remote control:
With RDP, the computer support staff at server-side can easily view and control session on remote desktop. It allows the support agents to share inputs as well as to display graphics between two desktop sessions that are connected remotely.
Disaster recovery:
When you are using RDP, there is no need to worry about losing data due to a security breach or theft issues. All the files and documents from the remote systems are safely stored on the data centers so that they can be accessed anytime in the future. All connections on the remote desktop are well encrypted to lead safe and secure connections with server and client. Users need not worry about hacker’s attack.
Freedom to work:
Once you start working with RDP, there is no need to stay restricted to the specific work environment. Users can move to any location with their laptop and work seamlessly without any trouble. It enhances productivity while offering virtual work environment to the large organizations.
Cost-effective solution:
The remote desktop system can easily cut down the cost of buying a Microsoft Office Suit as you will get easy access to that with the recent version of remote IT system package. It means users can save more money without even compromising for their work performance.
Summary:
The latest versions of RDP are more secure, interactive, and user-friendly. If you are using recent operating systems from Windows, it is possible to access more advanced features where users are allowed to make selections for RDP session access. No one can access the network without following network-level authentication; hence, it ensures satisfactory and reliable data protection over the network.
If you are interested in staying safe from the hacker’s or man in the middle attacks, it is high time to gain access to RDP on your network.
Experts have also designed a dedicated Terminal Server Device Redirector Driver that helps to control all RDP activities. It can handle all operations related to data transfers, interfacing, encryption, framing, and compression. Furthermore, the transport driver also takes responsibility to pack the protocol in such a manner that it can be transferred over a TCP/IP network with ease.
Additionally, you can consider reading about Virtual Private Networks and compare RDP and VPN in terms of security and possible features.