Step-by-Step Guide to Install RustDesk for Remote Desktop on Windows 11

Step-by-Step Guide to Install RustDesk for Remote Desktop on Windows 11

How to Install RustDesk on Windows 11

Setting up RustDesk on Windows 11 is straightforward. By utilizing the built-in command-line utility, you can quickly install this open-source remote desktop software. Follow the command provided below to get started:

After installation, launch RustDesk to initiate a remote session. For those seeking greater control and privacy, consider self-hosting your server using the downloadable package available on GitHub.

Why Choose RustDesk Over Built-In Tools?

Windows 11 users now have an effective alternative to the native Remote Desktop feature and the Quick Assist app, enabling secure remote access and assistance across various devices. This is especially useful for users managing their own machines or providing help to family and friends.

RustDesk is crafted with emphasis on privacy, security, and performance. Unlike commercial solutions like TeamViewer or AnyDesk, RustDesk empowers users to self-host, guaranteeing complete ownership over their data and infrastructure while ensuring confidentiality.

The application allows for remote viewing and control of computers, seamless file sharing through its integrated file manager, and clipboard synchronization between devices. It uses TLS 1.3 encryption for secure communication, eliminating reliance on proprietary encryption technologies.

RustDesk can function over the internet or via a VPN, and by self-hosting your server, you can entirely avoid public services. Even when utilizing the public RustDesk relay servers, your session details remain secure from third-party access.

Benefits of Using RustDesk

Developed in Rust, a programming language renowned for its speed and memory safety, RustDesk ensures high performance with minimal latency. The tool utilizes a custom video codec, designed specifically for efficient and low-latency remote desktop experiences.

While default settings allow for quick connections through public servers, advanced users may opt for self-hosting for enhanced control and privacy—though this requires additional configuration.

Step-by-Step Guide for Setting Up RustDesk on Windows 11

This section outlines the process of installing and configuring RustDesk on Windows 11 to facilitate remote connections across networks. Even though instructions mainly address Windows 11, RustDesk can also be deployed on macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.

Installing RustDesk Client on Windows 11

Follow these steps to successfully download and install RustDesk:

  1. Open Start in Windows 11.

  2. Search for Command Prompt or Terminal, right-click the result, and select Run as administrator.

  3. Input the following command to install RustDesk:

    winget install --id RustDesk. RustDesk

    winget install RustDesk

After completing these steps, you can start connecting to other machines remotely. However, connections will initially use the public RustDesk server. For enhanced privacy and performance, setting up a self-hosted server is advisable.

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Setting Up a Self-Hosted RustDesk Server on Windows 11

Processing the self-hosted server installation entails the following steps:

  1. Visit the GitHub page for RustDesk.

  2. Locate and download rustdesk-server-windows-x86_64-unsigned.zip and save it on your computer.

    RustDesk server download

  3. Navigating to the download folder, select the package and choose Extract all from the command bar.

  4. Click Extract.

    File Explorer extract RustDesk server

  5. Right-click on RustDeskServer. Setup.exe, and select Run as administrator.

    RustDesk server install

    Note: Due to unsigned software, a warning may appear. Click “More info”, then select “Run anyway”.

  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the installation.

  7. Launch the RustDesk server from the Start menu.

  8. Select Service and then Start to activate the service (if needed).

    Start RustDesk server service

  9. Copy the “key”string using the Ctrl + C shortcut.

    RustDesk find server key

Once these steps are completed, configure each client to connect via your local server by using the server’s IP address and key.

Uninstalling the server application requires using the uninstall shortcut located at %ALLUSERSPROFILE%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\RustDeskServer since it will not appear in the Installed apps menu.

The server serves as an intermediary facilitating remote desktop connections while not processing your input or rendering the remote screen—these tasks are left to the client. The server’s main function is to help clients locate each other and establish connections.

Server responsibilities include creating and managing device identifiers and IP address tracking for each computer. It is essential to note that using the free self-hosted version does not provide access to a web interface for managing clients. Nevertheless, for personal use or a limited number of computers, the free tier suffices.

It’s advisable to use a different computer for setting up the server than the one you plan to connect to, to mitigate any potential connectivity problems. Many users have reported initial issues that resolved after restarting the server.

Additionally, although installation on the operating system is possible, RustDesk recommends utilizing Docker for optimal setup.

Configuring the RustDesk Client on Windows 11

After installation, you can begin remote access from another device. However, you may wish to customize the connection name and establish a permanent password.

  1. Open the Start menu.

  2. Search for RustDesk and select the application from the top search results.

  3. Click the Settings button (three dots) in the left pane.

    RustDesk client open settings

  4. From the left pane, select Security.

  5. Click the “Unlock security settings” button.

  6. Choose the “Use permanent password” option.

  7. Confirm your desired permanent password by clicking “Set permanent password”.

    RustDesk set permanent password

  8. Re-enter the password to confirm.

  9. Hit OK.

  10. Navigate to Network.

  11. Click the “Unlock network settings” button.

  12. Select the “ID/Relay server” option.

    RustDesk client server configuration

  13. Enter the RustDesk server IP address you copied earlier in the “ID Server” and “Relay server” fields.

  14. Verify the key from the RustDesk server logs.

    RustDesk set server IP and key

  15. Click the OK button.

Completing these steps will enable your device to connect directly to the self-hosted RustDesk server for remote communication with other devices on the local network. This configuration must be repeated on each machine involved in remote access.

RustDesk clients utilize the ID (signaling) server (hbbs) to locate the remote device and then strive to create a direct peer-to-peer (P2P) connection. If P2P isn’t achievable due to NAT issues or firewall configurations, the session will be routed through the relay server (hbbr).

While you can use RustDesk over the internet, it requires suitable server and network settings, including opening relevant firewall ports for both hbbs and hbbr.

The default core ports are:

  • TCP: 21115 (ID server), 21116 (relay server), 21117
  • UDP: 21116 (used for relay communication)
  • Web client (optional): TCP 21118 and 21119

For ease of use, you may opt for RustDesk’s public servers, which do not necessitate server installation or firewall modifications. However, if you choose to deploy a self-hosted server, proper firewall configuration is essential for external connections.

Establishing a Remote Connection Using RustDesk on Windows 11

Here’s how to connect remotely to another PC through RustDesk:

  1. Open Start.

  2. Search for RustDesk and click on the top result to open the application.

  3. Confirm the computer’s assigned name in the “Control Remote Desktop” settings.

  4. Click the Connect button.

    RustDesk establish remote connection

  5. Enter the password and click OK.

Upon successful connection, you can begin to control the remote computer. Access a toolbar by clicking the “down”arrow, which provides various options to enhance your interaction with the connected machine. Here, you can transfer files, use the device’s camera, modify connection quality, initiate chats, and record the screen.

RustDesk connection controls
RustDesk connection controls / Image: Mauro Huculak

If utilizing RustDesk for personal devices, adjust the “Display Settings” for improved image quality by selecting “Good image quality” along with your preferred scaling options.

Source & Images

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