Connecting to a remote desktop is one of the most effective ways to manage remote systems, especially in corporate environments. The Remote Desktop Service (RDP) in Windows provides users with the ability to interact with remote systems as if they were physically in front of them. System administrators often need access to a console or administrative session on a server or computer, in which case you can use the /admin parameter when running mstsc.exe.
Why do I need the /admin parameter?
The /admin parameter (in older versions /console) when running Remote Desktop Connection(mstsc.exe) allows you to connect to the administrative console on a remote computer. This option is used to gain access to a console session or to perform tasks that require elevated privileges.
1. Console Session
A console session is the main session on a remote computer that is used when logging in locally. Connecting to a console session can be useful, for example, to install applications that require interaction with a real console, or to work with some administrative tools that work better in the context of a console session.
2. Perform administrative tasks
The /admin parameter allows administrators to perform tasks that require elevated privileges. This can be particularly useful on servers where you want to restrict access to the remote desktop for administrative purposes only, such as updating software, managing services, or troubleshooting.
3. License Management
A connection with the /admin parameter does not use remote desktop licenses (RDS CALs), making it convenient for short-term administrative tasks. However, keep in mind that this is not intended for regular use by non-administrative users.
How to use the /admin parameter
To connect to a remote computer via mstsc.exe using the /admin parameter, follow these steps:
1. Launch Command Prompt
Open a command prompt on your computer. This can be done through the Start menu by typing"cmd" in the search bar and then selecting "Command Prompt" or"Command Prompt".
Alternatively, to open the command prompt on your computer, you can use the Win + R key combination. In the"Run" window that appears, type"cmd" and press"Enter".
2. Entering a command to connect
At the command prompt, enter a command to start the remote desktop with the required parameters:
mstsc /v:<name_or_IP_of_remote_computer> /admin
Example:
If the IP address of the remote computer is 192.168.1.1.100, the command would look like this:
mstsc /v:192.168.1.100 /admin
3. Authenticate
After executing the command, the remote desktop connection window will open. Enter the username and password for an account that has administrator privileges on the remote computer. After entering the data, click"OK" or"Connect" to start the session.
Important Points
Remote Access: Make sure that remote access is enabled on the target computer.
Firewall: Check the firewall settings on the remote computer to make sure it allows connections via RDP (port 3389).
Licensing: A connection using /admin does not use a remote desktop license, making it useful for administrative tasks, but it is not intended for normal user access.
Using mstsc with the /admin parameter is a powerful tool for system administrators to access a console session and perform various administrative tasks on remote computers
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