How to Add or Remove Remote Desktop Users in Windows 11

Remote Desktop Microsoft Remote Desktop is a feature that lets you connect to your computer from a different location. It is built into Windows, but you must enable it before it works.

Why do this? When you turn on Remote Desktop, you allow others to access your apps and files from afar. Managing who has this access is important for keeping your computer safe.

What happens when done? The people you add will be able to log into your computer remotely. If you remove someone, they will no longer have access.

Using the Settings App

You can manage users through the Windows Settings app. Note: This action requires admin privileges.

1. open the Settings app and click System on the left side.

2. Select the Remote Desktop tile.

3. Click the Remote Desktop users tile.

4. Click Add to give someone access, or select a name and click Remove to take it away.

5. In the pop-up, click Advanced to search for a specific user.

6. Click Find Now, choose the user from the list, and click OK.

7. Click OK again to finish.

Using the Control Panel

You can also use the classic Control Panel app to manage users. This requires admin privileges.

1. Go to System and Security and click Allow remote access.

2. On the window that appears, click Select Users.

3. Follow the same steps as above to add or remove names.

Using Local Users and Groups

This method uses the lusrmgr.msc tool. This requires admin privileges.

1. Search for “lusrmgr.msc” and open it.
2. Select Groups on the left and double-click Remote Desktop Users.

3. Click Add or Remove to change who has access.

Using Command Prompt or PowerShell

Advanced users can use the Command Prompt to update permissions. You must open Windows Terminal to run these commands.

To add a user via Command Prompt:

net localgroup "Remote Desktop Users" "UserName" /add

To remove a user via Command Prompt:

net localgroup "Remote Desktop Users" "UserName" /delete

To add a user via PowerShell:

Add-LocalGroupMember -Group "Remote Desktop Users" -Member "UserName"

To remove a user via PowerShell:

Remove-LocalGroupMember -Group "Remote Desktop Users" -Member "UserName"

Summary

Managing Remote Desktop users helps you control who can access your PC remotely. You can use the Windows Settings app, the Control Panel, the Local Users and Groups tool, or command-line methods to add or remove people. Always ensure only trusted individuals have this level of access to your computer.