In the last few years of remote work, the need to access USB devices connected to a remote computer has become increasingly important. This may be necessary to work with printers, scanners, webcams, USB drives and other equipment.
Using a virtual usb remote desktop solves this problem by allowing the user to access USB devices on the remote computer as if they were connected to their local computer.
USB redirection via remote desktop
USB redirection via Remote Desktop allows you to use USB devices connected to your local computer on a remote computer during a remote access session.
This feature may be required in a variety of situations:
- Working with printers and scanners. You can print documents and scan images on a remote computer as if you were doing it locally.
- Use of web cameras. You can participate in video conferences and use a webcam on a remote computer.
- Connecting USB storage devices. You can transfer files between your local and remote computer using a USB drive.
- Use of specialized equipment. You can connect 3D printers, security keys and other specialized equipment to a remote computer.
There are a variety of ways to redirect USB via Remote Desktop. Each of them has its own characteristics. For example, you can use the capabilities of the operating system. There is also third party software that allows you to use all the available features.
Remote USB connection options
USB Remote Connection extends the functionality of Remote Desktop by allowing the user to work with USB devices connected to the remote computer in the same way as if they were connected to their local computer. Among the key functionality, you should pay attention to the following:
- Access to USB devices. This includes working with printers, scanners, web cameras, USB drives; connecting and using specialized equipment such as 3D printers, security keys, barcode readers, etc.
- Extending the functionality of the remote desktop. This includes increased productivity in work scenarios that require the use of specialized equipment. It is also possible to simplify the work with remote computers, making it more convenient and familiar.
- Remote management and maintenance. Special software provides the ability to diagnose and repair remote computers using specialized equipment; Remote configuration and updating of device firmware is possible.
It is also possible to use several devices simultaneously. This includes connecting and working with multiple USB devices in a single remote access session. It is also possible to redirect multiple connections, which allows you to distribute certain resources and functions between different devices. Using special software, you can configure access rights, limiting or allowing access to certain functionality.
Features of working with virtual USB
Virtual USB connection via Remote Desktop has a number of features that must be taken into account when using it:
- Dependency on network bandwidth. For virtual USB to work correctly, a stable and fairly fast Internet connection is required. Data transfer speed can affect performance with USB devices, especially resource-intensive ones such as 3D printers or high-definition cameras. If you use a slow or unstable connection, you may experience delays, interruptions, and data loss.
- Device compatibility. Not all USB devices are compatible with virtual connection technology. Some devices, such as GPS navigators, fingerprint scanners and specialized equipment, may not work correctly or may not be detected at all in a remote session. Before using virtual USB with a specific device, it is recommended that you review the list of compatible devices on the remote access software manufacturer’s website or documentation.
- Safety. When using virtual USB, it is important to take precautions to keep your computer and data safe. Use a secure remote access protocol such as RDP with encryption (RDP Security Layer) or VPN. Do not connect USB storage devices from unknown sources to your remote session. Install antivirus software on both computers and update its database regularly. Limit access to USB devices on the remote computer to only those users who truly need it.
Some devices may require additional drivers to operate in a virtual environment. Make sure the necessary drivers are installed on both computers. In some cases, working with virtual USB may require administrative access to the remote computer.
There are third-party programs that can extend the capabilities of a virtual USB connection by adding additional features such as redirecting USB hubs or setting access rights.
Using virtual USB is a convenient and functional solution for remote access to various devices. It can be used to enable an entire team to work remotely.
