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Disabling Remote Desktop when you don't need it

Remote Desktop lets someone control your PC from another computer. It's genuinely useful for some people, but if you don't use it, it's worth confirming it's switched off, because it's a common target for attackers.

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CE: Secure Configuration
A phone and laptop showing an active VPN connection

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Check it's off

Go to Settings > System > Remote Desktop. If you don't use it, make sure the toggle is Off. For most home users, off is the right setting.

If you do use it

If you rely on Remote Desktop, keep it on but protect it: use a strong password on your account, turn on Network Level Authentication in the Remote Desktop settings, and never expose it directly to the internet without extra protection like a VPN.

The simple rule

If you're not sure whether you use it, you almost certainly don't, so switch it off. You can always turn it back on if you find you need it.

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