Why use RDP on Android?
- Access Windows VPS/server and RDS/AVD desktops from your phone/tablet.
- Make urgent edits in CMS/1C/corporate applications when you don’t have your laptop handy.
- Support customers: log into the server, restart the service, view logs.
The Android client is just a shell. The server side (Windows Server/Pro + RDS/AVD/Windows 365) must be configured correctly: RDP enabled, NLA active, accounts created and accessible. Windows Home does not support RDP server login — use VNC or another technology (confirmed by aRDP description).
What to look for when choosing a client
- Official status and support: update frequency, compatibility with AVD/Windows 365/RDS.
- Security: NLA/TLS, RD Gateway support, permission policy.
- Usability: gestures/mouse/keyboard, tablet and DeX modes, external monitors (important for Parallels).
- Features: clipboard/audio, multi-session, management of multiple connections/secrets.
- Price: free vs Pro/enterprise (aRDP Pro, Parallels with RAS).
Recommended clients: what to choose for the task
1) Windows App (official Microsoft client)
The official way to connect to Remote Desktop Services, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Windows 365; regularly updated, supports modern features, and works on Android 11+ (see the page on Google Play). Ideal as the “default” choice.
Pros: free, stable, NLA, multi-touch, audio/video, Chromebook.
Cons: fewer “management” features than professional panels.
2) Parallels Client (Android) — when you have Parallels RAS
Tailored for Parallels RAS infrastructure: secure access to corporate applications/VDI, printing, centralized management, SAML/LDAP, external monitor with v17.1+, detailed user guide.
Pros: corporate features, mature ecosystem.
Cons: “unlocks” specifically with RAS.
3) Remote Desktop Manager (Devolutions) — an all-in-one solution for professionals
Not just an RDP client, but a connection and secret manager: RDP/VNC/SSH/… + integrations with password managers and IAM, RDP Gateway, command-line operation. Essential if you manage dozens or hundreds of access points.
Pros: centralized control.
Cons: more difficult for beginners to learn.
4) aRDP (free, open-source) and aRDP Pro
A lightweight client based on FreeRDP/aFreeRDP, supports SSH tunneling; many flexible settings. The description clearly states: for Windows Home, use VNC/bVNC. The Pro version offers more permissions/gestures and is ad-free.
5) RemoteToGo — a simple alternative (RDP/VNC)
Supports both RDP and VNC; easy to set up, but the interface is old-school. Based on FreeRDP; there is a summary of versions/updates in the stores.
Step by step: connecting via Windows App (Android)
This example is suitable for VPS/servers with RDP and NLA enabled. For AVD/Windows 365, use the Workspace add-on.
- Install Windows App from Google Play and open it.
- Tap Add PC → specify the server’s IP/domain and username in the format DOMAIN\user or user@domain (if there is a domain/AD).
- Check NLA (Network Level Authentication) — it must be enabled on the server and client: this encrypts the handshake and requires authentication before the session starts.
- Save the profile → tap on the card → confirm the server certificate for the first time (or install your own).
What else is there in Windows App:
- Workspaces (AVD/Windows 365) — add the workspace URL, get published applications/desktops.
- Screen settings — resolution, scale, orientation, multi-screen mode (on supported devices).
- DeX/Chromebook — full UI with mouse/keyboard and external monitor.
Performance: how to get the most out of your mobile connection
- Lower the resolution and color depth in your profile.
- Disable animations/wallpapers on remote Windows, enable “best performance”.
- If there is lag, disable sound/clip buffer and return later.
- On Android, give the app “unrestricted” permission for power saving.
- For unstable LTE, use VPN + “fewer packets/lower bandwidth, but more stable.”
Security: a checklist that really helps
- On the server, enable NLA; passwords — complex, limited validity; logins — only for necessary users.
- RD Gateway (if accessed from outside) — this way you don’t open 3389 directly to the Internet.
- VPN for public networks; on the client — minimum application permissions.
- When connecting for the first time, check the server certificate (CN/SAN).
- For companies — MFA/SSO (Azure AD, RAS), audit logs, and group access rules.
Common problems and solutions
- Black screen or long authorization — check NLA and account; temporarily disable device redirection.
- Cannot connect by name — check DNS/A record; try by IP.
- Connection drops with LTE — reduce the resolution/frame rate in the client, disable sound, test VPN.
- Windows Home — connection as an RDP “server” is not supported (see aRDP note); use VNC/bVNC or upgrade the edition.
What to choose — a brief summary
- Quick start and “like Microsoft”: Windows App.
- Corporate environment, RAS: Parallels Client.
- You have many different protocols and accesses: Remote Desktop Manager.
- Need a lightweight opensource: aRDP (or aRDP Pro).
- Simple alternative with VNC: RemoteToGo.
