Chrome Remote Desktop Set Up

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Chrome Remote Desktop (CRD) lets you connect securely to another computer using your Google account. This works like RDP to allow you to access a computer remotely, but has some key security features. To set up this access the end user wanting access must first sign into the desired end point and install the CRD app, and enable the setting in their profile in chrome. Please use this guide for set up.

1. Set Up Remote Access (Connect to target machine remotely)

Use this if you want to access your own computer any time without needing someone on the other end.

On the computer you want to access (the “host”):

  1. Open Google Chrome and sign in with your Google account.

  2. Go to remotedesktop.google.com/access.

  3. Under “Set up Remote Access”, click Download and install the Chrome Remote Desktop Host service.

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  4. Once installed, click Turn on.

  5. Choose a computer name.

  6. Set a PIN (6+ digits) — you’ll use this every time you connect.

  7. Confirm with your computer password if prompted (Mac/Linux may also require security permission changes).

Now this computer will stay available under your Google account for remote access.

How to connect to device after set up:

  1. On your machine open Chrome and go to remotedesktop.google.com/access.

    • On mobile, install the Chrome Remote Desktop app.

  2. Sign in with the same Google account.

  3. The computer will now show up on your list.

  4. Select that device to begin connecting 

  5. Enter the PIN you created, and the connection should establish.

Connection will resolve as long as the host computer is on and connected to the Internet.

2. One-Time Remote Support (Temporary Access)

Use this if you want to share your screen temporarily or help someone else.

To share your computer:

  1. On the computer, open Chrome and go to remotedesktop.google.com/support.

  2. Under “Get Support”, click Download and install the CRD Host service if not already installed.

  3. Click Generate Code.

  4. Share the code with the person helping you.

    • They’ll be able to see and control your screen until you stop sharing.

    • Codes expire after one use and sessions require re-approval every 30 minutes.

  5. To end, click Stop Sharing.

To connect to someone else’s computer:

  1. On your computer, open Chrome and go to remotedesktop.google.com/support.

  2. Enter the access code given to you under “Give Support.”

  3. Click Connect to begin the session.

3. Managing Remote Desktop

  • Stop a session: Close the tab or choose Options → Disconnect.

  • Remove a computer from your list:

    • Go to remotedesktop.google.com/access, click the three-dot menu next to the computer, and select Disable remote connections.

  • Security: All sessions are fully encrypted. Permanent access requires your Google account plus your PIN.

4. Troubleshooting Tips

  • Make sure the host computer is powered on and connected to the internet.

  • Antivirus/firewall must allow:

    • Outbound UDP traffic

    • Inbound UDP responses

    • TCP port 443 (HTTPS)

    • TCP/UDP port 3478 (STUN)

  • On managed networks, admins may restrict CRD.

  • Use the latest version of Chrome or Chrome OS.

Remove Chrome Remote Desktop

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