Using a Windows VPS for remote work

What it looks like in practice

You rent a Windows VPS and set it up like a desk at work: your programs installed, your files in folders. Then you connect with Remote Desktop from a laptop at home, a desktop at a client's, or a tablet on the road. It is the same desktop each time.

Benefits

• Same desktop everywhere. Start work on one device and continue on another.
• Work keeps running. Long jobs continue while your own device is off. See how to keep programs running.
• Files in one place. Your important files stay on the server, not scattered across laptops.
• A clean Windows machine. Useful for software that you do not want on your personal PC.
• A location of your choice. Pick a region close to you. See how to choose a location.

Things to plan for

• You need internet. Without a connection, you cannot reach the server. A weak connection makes it laggy. See how to speed up Remote Desktop.
• Software licences. Windows Server is included in your plan. Other software, such as office suites, needs its own licence. Check each program's terms.
• More than two people at once. By default Windows Server allows two remote administrator sessions. More users need extra licences, which are not included.
• You maintain it. Updates, security and backups are your job.

Security basics for work use

If client or company data is on the server, take these steps seriously:

1. A strong, unique password, stored in a password manager.
2. Windows Update on a regular schedule.
3. A separate user account for each person who needs access, never a shared password.
4. Regular backups kept off the server.

Read how to secure a Windows VPS and how to back up a Windows VPS.

Is it a VPN?

No. A VPN protects your internet traffic and changes how you appear online. A Windows VPS is a separate computer you use remotely. They do different jobs.

Which plan?

For light office work and a few programs, a smaller plan is often enough. For heavier software or several people, choose more RAM. See how to choose a plan.