Remote desktop protocol (RDP) is a secure network communications protocol designed for remote management, as well as for remote access to virtual desktops, applications and an RDP terminal server. RDP allows network administrators to remotely diagnose and resolve problems individual subscribers encounter.

Microsoft Remote Desktop is a client application that allows you to access and control the resources and data of a remote, or host, computer using an Internet connection. ... Remote desktop capabilities allow you to access a work computer from home whether or not the work computer connects to a network.