Windows 7 Windows 7 gobbles up my open ports!!

Configuring Remote Desktop for External Access on Windows 7:​

1. Port Forwarding on Router:
   • Log in to your router's configuration page.
   • Navigate to the Port Forwarding section.
   • Forward the desired port (e.g., 3389 for Remote Desktop) to the internal IP address of your home PC.
   []Dynamic DNS (Optional):
   • Set up a Dynamic DNS service if your external IP address changes frequently. This allows you to connect using a domain name instead of an IP address.
   []Windows Firewall Configuration:
   • Allow Remote Desktop through the Windows Firewall.
   • Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Firewall.
   • Click on "Allow a program or feature through Windows Firewall" and ensure "Remote Desktop" is checked.
   []Remote Desktop Settings:
   • Go to Control Panel > System and Security > System.
   • Click on "Remote settings" on the left.
   • Select "Allow connections from computers running any version of Remote Desktop" for accessibility.
   []Adjusting Remote Desktop Port:
   • If you're encountering port conflicts, change the default Remote Desktop port:
     • Open Registry Editor (regedit).
     • Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp\PortNumber.
     • Change the port number (e.g., to 3390) to avoid conflicts.
2. Connect Externally:
   • Use your external IP address or Dynamic DNS hostname followed by the port number to connect (e.g., your_IP:3390).

     Additional Tips:​

     • Ensure your ISP allows incoming connections on the chosen port.
     • Use strong passwords and consider implementing Network Level Authentication (NLA).
     • Update your Windows 7 system with the latest security patches.
     By following these steps, you should be able to access your home PC externally via Remote Desktop on Windows 7 RC. If you face any difficulties or need further clarification on any step, feel free to ask!