How to Remote View Your Computer or Network

Have you ever needed to access your office computer while working from home or monitor another device remotely for troubleshooting? In today’s hybrid work era, understanding how to remote view a system has become essential for IT managers, cybersecurity professionals, and business leaders.

Whether you’re managing enterprise servers, monitoring endpoints, or assisting employees with technical issues, remote viewing tools allow you to connect to computers and networks from anywhere—securely and efficiently.

In this comprehensive article, you’ll learn the most reliable methods for remote viewing, key security practices, and step-by-step instructions for Windows, macOS, and enterprise setups.

What Does Remote Viewing Mean in IT?

In the context of IT and cybersecurity, remote viewing refers to accessing and controlling another computer or network device from a different location. It’s a critical function for:

• IT administrators: Troubleshooting and managing user systems.
• Cybersecurity analysts: Monitoring endpoints for threats.
• Business leaders: Accessing workstations remotely while traveling.
• Technical support teams: Providing real-time assistance.

Remote viewing works by establishing a secure connection between two devices using remote desktop protocols or third-party software. Once connected, you can view the screen, control input devices, transfer files, and monitor activity in real time.

Why Learning How to Remote View Matters

The demand for secure remote viewing solutions has skyrocketed with the rise of distributed workforces and cloud infrastructure. According to Gartner, over 80% of enterprise workloads are now accessible remotely, making secure monitoring a top priority.

Key Benefits of Remote Viewing:

1. 24/7 Access: Manage devices and servers from anywhere.
2. Faster Troubleshooting: Diagnose and fix system issues without being physically present.
3. Enhanced Collaboration: IT teams can support global employees instantly.
4. Stronger Security Oversight: Track unusual activity and detect breaches in real-time.
5. Business Continuity: Keep systems running even during travel, outages, or emergencies.

How to Remote View on Windows

Windows offers several built-in and third-party options for remote access. Let’s explore each in detail.

1. Using Microsoft Remote Desktop (RDP)

Microsoft Remote Desktop is the most popular and secure way to remote view another Windows computer.

Steps:

1. On the target (remote) PC, go to Settings > System > Remote Desktop.
2. Enable Remote Desktop.
3. Note the PC name under “How to connect to this PC.”
4. On your local computer, open Remote Desktop Connection (search mstsc in Start).
5. Enter the target PC name or IP address.
6. Log in with valid credentials.

Pro Tip: For added security, use a VPN connection before establishing the remote session.

Requirements:

• Both computers must be on the same network or connected through VPN.
• Windows 10 Pro, Enterprise, or Windows Server edition is required on the remote system.

2. Using PowerShell and Command Line for Remote Viewing

For IT managers, PowerShell offers command-based remote access for administration and automation.

Command Example:

Enter-PSSession -ComputerName REMOTE_PC_NAME -Credential DOMAIN\User

This allows direct command-line control over the target machine, ideal for managing servers or performing network audits securely.

3. Using Remote Assistance in Windows

Steps:

1. Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Allow Remote Assistance.
2. Click Invite someone you trust to help you.
3. Send the invitation link or file to the other user.

This method is user-friendly for IT support teams assisting end-users.

Limitation: Remote Assistance requires user consent each time, making it less suitable for constant monitoring.

How to Remote View on macOS

Mac systems also support remote viewing through both built-in and third-party tools.

1. Using Screen Sharing

Steps:

1. Open System Settings > General > Sharing.
2. Enable Screen Sharing.
3. Note your Mac’s IP address.
4. On another Mac, open Finder > Go > Connect to Server.
5. Enter the IP as: vnc://your.IP.address
6. Authenticate with your username and password.

You’ll now have full visual access to the remote Mac desktop.

2. Using Apple Remote Desktop (ARD)

Apple’s professional remote management tool allows IT administrators to manage multiple macOS devices.

Features include:

• Real-time monitoring
• File transfers
• Software installation
• Command-line execution

Setup:

1. Purchase Apple Remote Desktop from the App Store.
2. Add client Macs using their IP addresses.
3. Approve connection requests on target devices.

Security Tip: Enable ARD only for trusted administrators and use strong, unique passwords.

How to Remote View Across Platforms (Windows to Mac or Vice Versa)

In hybrid IT environments, cross-platform remote viewing is essential. The following tools simplify access between macOS and Windows systems.

1. Chrome Remote Desktop

A free, browser-based tool that works on any operating system.

Steps:

1. Visit remotedesktop.google.com.
2. Install the Chrome Remote Desktop extension.
3. Sign in with your Google account.
4. Choose Set up Remote Access on the target computer.
5. Enter a PIN when prompted.
6. Access the system from another device via the same account.

Advantages:

• Cross-platform compatibility
• Encrypted connections
• Simple to use for non-technical users

2. AnyDesk

AnyDesk is a lightweight yet secure remote access solution used by enterprises worldwide.

Features:

• AES-256 encryption
• Session recording
• File transfer and clipboard syncing

Steps:

1. Install AnyDesk on both devices.
2. Enter the target device’s ID.
3. Accept the request and connect.

Bonus: AnyDesk offers mobile-to-desktop connectivity, perfect for on-the-go IT management.

3. TeamViewer

A robust remote management platform widely used in business environments.

Steps:

1. Install TeamViewer on both systems.
2. Open the app and copy your Partner ID and Password.
3. Enter those credentials on the connecting device.
4. Click Connect.

Advantages:

• Cross-OS access (Windows, macOS, Linux)
• Session encryption
• Two-factor authentication (2FA) support

Remote Viewing for Cybersecurity and IT Management

For IT security professionals, knowing how to remote view goes beyond convenience—it’s a strategic capability.

1. Endpoint Monitoring

Administrators can observe endpoint behavior, detect unusual processes, and respond to alerts immediately.

2. Incident Response

During cyber incidents, remote viewing enables investigators to analyze logs and isolate affected systems without physical access.

3. Patch Management

Deploying updates across multiple systems remotely ensures consistent protection.

4. Secure Remote Work

Organizations can maintain security visibility while employees operate from various locations.

Best Practice: Always pair remote viewing tools with Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions like Xcitium, which ensures real-time threat containment and compliance.

Security Tips for Safe Remote Viewing

Remote access opens potential entry points for cyberattacks. Follow these security best practices:

1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adds a critical layer of protection.
2. Use VPNs: Encrypt data between connected devices.
3. Restrict Access: Limit remote privileges to verified users.
4. Update Software Regularly: Prevent exploits in outdated applications.
5. Audit Session Logs: Keep track of who accessed what and when.
6. Encrypt File Transfers: Use SSL/TLS-based communication protocols.

For enterprises, using zero-trust network architecture further reduces the risk of unauthorized access.

Troubleshooting Common Remote Viewing Issues

Regular system updates and proper firewall configuration ensure smooth, uninterrupted sessions.

FAQs About Remote Viewing

1. What is the safest way to remote view a computer?

Use built-in solutions like Microsoft Remote Desktop or secure third-party tools like AnyDesk or TeamViewer with 2FA enabled.

2. Can I remote view without internet?

Yes, if both devices are connected via a local network or VPN.

3. Does remote viewing affect performance?

Minimal impact if configured correctly; however, slow networks can cause delays.

4. Is it safe to use Chrome Remote Desktop for business?

Yes, it’s encrypted and secure for general use, though enterprises should use dedicated EDR-backed solutions for compliance.

5. How can I tell if someone is remotely viewing my PC?

Unusual cursor movements, lag, or system notifications can indicate active remote sessions. Always check Task Manager > Users for active connections.

Final Thoughts on Remote Viewing

Knowing how to remote view computers and networks securely is vital for modern IT and cybersecurity operations. Whether you’re monitoring endpoints, providing tech support, or accessing your workstation remotely, the right tools and practices make the process seamless and safe.

Always prioritize security-first configurations — strong authentication, encrypted connections, and trusted software are key to preventing unauthorized access.

Ready to elevate your remote monitoring security?

Start securing your remote connections with Xcitium’s enterprise-grade endpoint protection today