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RDP File Transfer

Posted on by Kevin Murphy | Updated:
Reading Time: 2 minutes

How to Use Remote Desktop to Transfer Files to Your Windows Server

Transferring files to your new Windows Server can be a hassle when you are first setting everything up. Plesk, FTP, or network file sharing might not be quite ready to use or your internet service provider may block those web ports. This is where transferring files via the Remote Desktop Connection program comes in! You can redirect your workstations hard drive and it will appear when you are logged in.

Opening The Program

This program comes with all Windows operating systems. You can click the “Start” button and search for “Remote Desktop Connection” and a computer with green arrows should come up. This is the program we will be using.
Remote Desktop Connection

Configuring The Program

Here are the steps to configure the program to redirect your local workstation’s C drive.

  1. Input your server’s IP address in the “Computer” field
    Computer field
  2. Select the “Local Resources” tab
  3. Select the “More” button
    Local Resources tab
  4. Expand the “Drives” section
  5. Select the “Local Disk C:” (and any other drives)
    Select the Local Disk C:
  6. Click “Connect”
Note:
You can also select the “General” tab and then “Save” to save these settings.

Accessing Your Files

Once you are connected to the server, you can follow the steps below to access the files.

  1. Login to the server using the new settings
  2. Open “File Explorer”
  3. Select “This PC” or “Computer”
  4. Double-click “C on [Your Local Workstation]”
    File Explorer

You should now be able to see all of your files on your local workstation! Keep in mind there is a file size limitation of 2 GB when transferring files through this method. Additionally, transfer speeds may be a little slower.

You can use Plesk to set up FTP which can then be used to transfer large files. Plesk also has a built-in File Manager. Check it out with the following links to Plesk Addons and the Plesk Customer Guide.

About the Author: Kevin Murphy

Kevin formerly worked for Liquid Web as a Helpful Human supporting our Windows Enterprise team. He has been working in IT professionally since 2012. While he has supported Windows infrastructure his entire career, he also has an in-depth knowledge of Linux. In his free time, he enjoys reading, video games, and watching NHL and Formula 1.

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