1. Level 3 Extended Diploma Unit 13 Computer Systems Architecture
Remote Desktop
Level 3 Extended Diploma
Unit 13
Computer Systems Architecture

2. Remote desktop Understand usage Understand function
Research security issues
Plan measures to improve security
Implement the measures (assignment 2 P4 and M2)

3. Usage Remote administration Remote support Training
Controlling “headless” computers
no keyboard or monitor attached, no KVM
Portable USB drive installations allow remote desktop usage from any PC
Connect back to your “home” PC from anywhere

4. Examples of protocols Cross platform Platform specific
Virtual Network Computing (VNC)
Platform specific
Windows Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)
Apple Remote Desktop Protocol (ADP)

5. Common functions A client (the viewing end)
Sends the keyboard and mouse activity
Displays the graphics sent from the server
A server (the controlled end)
Sends the screen output
Listens for keyboard and mouse instructions

6. Methods - VNC Sends graphics as pixels No encryption in base protocol
Works with any desktop
Initial full frame then changes
High bandwidth requirement when many picture changes
No encryption in base protocol
Can be run from flash drives

7. Methods - RDP Server and client built in to all Windows
Uses kernel level drivers, sends graphics primitives
Encrypted
Feature rich
File redirection – use local files on a remote PC
Audio redirection
Printer redirection – use local printer
Shared clipboard

8. Security What security problems exist?
Permits remote access to administrator accounts
Unlimited account access
Default ports
Windows code security flaws

9. Activity
Wiki slides – Remote Desktop Task