Prerequisites
- Google Chrome installed on the Windows PC you want to control.
- A Google account signed into Chrome on both the host and the client device.
- On the host PC: permission to allow remote connections (Windows firewall prompts may appear).
Step 1: Install the Chrome Remote Desktop extension
On the Windows host PC, open Chrome and go to the Chrome Remote Desktop extension page. Click Add to Chrome to install it. After installation, you can access the Remote Desktop UI from the extension or by visiting the Remote Desktop web page.
Step 2: Enable remote access on the Windows host
Open Chrome Remote Desktop and choose the option to set up Remote Access. Select your Windows device name, then click Next. Create a PIN (at least 6 digits) and confirm it. Chrome will download and install the required host component; accept any Windows prompts.
Important: Keep the PIN private. Anyone with the PIN (and your device access) may be able to connect.
Step 3: Allow through Windows Firewall (if prompted)
If Windows Firewall asks whether to allow Chrome Remote Desktop, choose Allow. If you don’t see a prompt, you may still need to ensure the host component is permitted. Without firewall access, you may see connection failures.
Step 4: Connect from another device
On the client device (another Windows PC, Mac, or Chromebook), open Chrome and visit Chrome Remote Desktop. Sign in with the same Google account. Under My Computers, select your host Windows PC and enter the PIN to start the session.
Troubleshooting common issues
1) “Can’t connect” or session won’t start
- Confirm the host PC is signed into Chrome with the same Google account.
- Make sure the host PC has an active internet connection.
- Check Windows Firewall permissions for the Chrome Remote Desktop host component.
- Try restarting the host PC and then re-enable remote access.
2) Host PC goes to sleep
- On the host PC, adjust Power & sleep settings to prevent sleep during remote use.
- Use a power plan that keeps the PC awake when plugged in.
3) PIN issues
- If you forgot the PIN, re-run the setup to create a new PIN.
- Ensure you enter the PIN exactly (no extra spaces).
Security best practices
- Use a strong, unique PIN and don’t share it.
- Prefer connecting only from trusted devices.
- Keep Chrome updated to the latest version.
Quick checklist
- Install extension on host PC [1].
- Set up Remote Access and create a PIN [1].
- Allow firewall when prompted [2].
- Connect from client device using the same Google account [3].
If you tell me your exact scenario (host PC on the same network or remote over the internet, and whether you get an error message), I can help you pinpoint the cause.