[Don_S]

I need to connect two computers sharing the same router via Ethernet. How can I control my music server (W10-Enterprise Version) via my main computer (W11 home)?

I had a remote access program that went fee-based. I do not use the server enough to pay fees. I found one program that works but it requires the remote computer to be monitored as in having a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and human present. Granting permission each time a connection is made is required and my server does not have a monitor, keyboard, and mouse connected continuously. Connecting them is a pain and they can’t remain in position. I have had problems trying to install remote software on the server. I think the builder tweaked Windows.

The two units are on the same Ethernet system and are close enough to connect via a long USB cable if needed. This is in my HT system which I rarely use for music. But I do like to use it for music sometimes and the unit has an excellent CD ripper. I am fortunate enough to have a dedicated music room with an Aurender server for my main system. It far eclipses the HT system.

Is there an easy way to connect the two computers? I am not much of a geek so please make it easy. Thank you for any help.

[toocool4]

Look for VNC software it's free.

[I.Greyhound Fan]

Use windows remote desk top.  I use it all the time with my laptop remoting into my Win. Server.  It should already be installed on you Win 11 computer.  If not, download it.


To enable Remote Desktop on a Windows PC, navigate to Settings > System > Remote Desktop and toggle the "Enable Remote Desktop" option to "On". Confirm the action in the pop-up dialog. The remote PC's name can be found under "PC name" in the same settings window. You can then use the Remote Desktop Connection app or the Microsoft Remote Desktop app to connect to it.

1. Enable Remote Desktop on the target PC:
Open Settings (Windows key + I).
Go to System > Remote Desktop.
Toggle the Enable Remote Desktop switch to On.
Click Confirm in the pop-up dialog.
Note the PC name under "PC name".
2. Connect using Remote Desktop Connection (built-in):
On the connecting PC, search for "Remote Desktop Connection" and open the app.
Enter the PC name of the target machine.
Click Connect.
Enter the username and password for the target PC when prompted.
3. Connect using Microsoft Remote Desktop app (from the Store):
Download and install the Microsoft Remote Desktop app from the Microsoft Store.
Launch the app and click Add PC.
Enter the PC name and other connection details.
Click Save.
Select the saved connection and click Connect.
Enter the username and password for the target PC when prompted.
You can also watch this video to learn how to connect to a remote desktop using the Microsoft Remote Desktop app from the Microsoft Store:

[Don_S]

Greyhound Fan
Thank you for the detailed answer. I dug out my notes from earlier trials. For some reason I could not get Windows Remote Desktop to "stick" on my music server. I could access the program but it would not work or stay installed. If I remember correctly, the music server software would not let me do the last step to install. As I wrote, I think the builder messed with the software.

I also think I was using Tight VNC before it went to fee-based.

Now TeamViewer works but only if the music server gives permission every time.

[nlitworld]

I use Google remote desktop and can then control via my phone, tablet, laptop, pc, car exhaust pipe, and grandma's kettle.  Just runs on a web browser and remotes in easily even if not on same network. I found it easier than relying on windows rdc especially to run off phone screen.

[WGH]

The two units are on the same Ethernet system and are close enough to connect via a long USB cable if needed.

Would  KVM switch work? I have never used one but the switch lets the user control two computers using only one keyboard, mouse and monitor.

The Best KVM Switches
https://www.pcmag.com/picks/best-kvm-switches#

[toocool4]

Don_S, do you have administrator rights on your music server?
If you do, there’s no reason RDP shouldn’t keep working on it.

Have you set your music server to use a static IP address?
With a static IP, the address never changes, so you can always connect to it at the same location.
If you don’t set a static IP, the address may change, making it harder to find like moving to a new house without telling anyone. People will keep looking for you at the old address, but you won’t be there.

WGH, KVM switch is a load of expensive hardware with cables everywhere to do a job that can be done without cables and cheaper with free or built in software.

[Zuman]

I use AnyDesk software (free for personal use!) to load and manage music on my Pachanko Constellation Mini SE music server, which runs on Windows.
AnyDesk is brilliant!
I can log onto my server from my laptop and have full access to the Pachanko's file system.  It allows me to load files onto the Pachanko's internal hard drive, delete files if I want to, and basically do anything that I'd be able to do if the Pachanko had a keyboard, mouse, and monitor.
If you download it, make sure you Google "AnyDesk Free Personal Use" to get to the right site or you're likely to end up on the commercial side.