Microsoft will discontinue its Remote Desktop application for Windows in May. The company confirms the app will no longer receive updates or support. This change affects users who rely on the application for remote access to computers. The phase-out begins May 31st.
Users must switch to the built-in Remote Desktop Connection (mstsc.exe) tool. Microsoft directs users to the operating system’s native remote desktop feature. This tool provides similar functionality. Microsoft cites a focus on the core Windows experience as the reason for the app’s retirement.
The dedicated app’s removal simplifies the Windows remote access experience. Microsoft aims to reduce redundancy. Users found multiple remote desktop options confusing. The app, available in the Microsoft Store, offered a modern interface. Microsoft now standardizes remote access under the operating system’s existing functionality.
The Remote Desktop Connection tool remains a core Windows component. It allows users to connect to remote computers over a network. Users enter the remote computer’s IP address or name. They provide credentials for access. This tool is available in all current Windows versions.
Microsoft released the Remote Desktop app to offer a more streamlined experience. It featured a user interface designed for modern Windows versions. Microsoft now believes the built-in tool provides adequate functionality.
The change brings consistency to Windows remote access. Users avoid choosing between different applications. Microsoft clarifies that standard remote desktop protocols remain supported. The underlying technology remains unchanged.
The decision impacts users who preferred the app’s interface. Some users may require time to adjust to the built-in tool. Microsoft offers documentation on using the Remote Desktop Connection tool. This documentation is available on the Microsoft support website.
Microsoft published a support document detailing the changes. This document outlines the timeline. It provides instructions for using the built-in Remote Desktop Connection tool. Microsoft’s documentation states the change is part of an ongoing effort to simplify the windows experience.
User feedback varied after Microsoft released the dedicated app. Some users found the app useful. Others preferred the built-in tool. Microsoft analyzed usage data. This data informed the decision to retire the app.
The phase-out avoids security risks associated with unsupported software. Microsoft stops providing security updates for the app. Users rely on the built-in tool, which receives regular Windows updates.
The Remote Desktop Connection tool offers features similar to the app. Users can adjust display settings. They can share local resources. Users can also print from the remote session.
Microsoft’s change reflects a trend toward simplifying software offerings. Companies reduce the number of redundant applications. This streamlines user experience. It also reduces development and support costs.
The company advises users to familiarize themselves with the Remote Desktop Connection tool before the May 31st deadline. This ensures a smooth transition. Microsoft provides resources for users. These resources include online tutorials and support articles.
The phase out of the application is a change in the user interface, not the underlying remote desktop protocol. Users can still connect to remote machines without issue. The main change is the application that they start the connection from.
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