How To Split Screen on Remote Desktop

Sometimes, having only one screen when accessing another computer remotely is just not enough to get things done. If you have that problem, there is a way to split screen on a remote desktop so that you can see both screens at the same time.

The article below will tell you how to split screen on remote desktop and give you some tips and alternative programs you can use to get the same results.

Creating a Spanned Remote Desktop Session on Windows 7(RDP)

Windows 7 comes with a built-in Remote Desktop feature that allows you to connect two computers in no time. Spanned Remote Desktop Session enables you to split the screen and use the multi-monitor remote session. That way, you can see both screens. Keep in mind that both machines have to be running on Windows 7 Ultimate or Enterprise.

If the two versions are not matching, you can still get remote access, but you won’t be able to split the screen. However, DisplayFusion can help you split screens in that case. The steps below require both screens to have the same resolution. You can hookup more than two monitors with the same resolution. Just make sure that all of the splits are accurately. Here is what you have to do:

1. Install DisplayFusion on the remote computer
2. Open “Start” and hit “Run.”
3. Write “mstsc /span” into the pop-up box (Remember that the two monitors need the same resolution for this to work.)
4. Enter the name of the remote computer and hit “Connect.”
5. Run the DisplayFusion Monitor Configuration window, click where it says “Splits and Padding.”
6. Open the remote machine in the RDP session and click “Preset Splits.” Select the “2×1” option. (Select another option if using more monitors).
7. Click “OK” and then hit “OK” again to close the configuration mode.
8. Your monitor should now be divided into two virtual monitors inside of the remote desktop session.

DisplayFusion monitor allows you to split the screen horizontally or vertically and you can set the width and height to the right resolution so you can see both desktops at the same time.

Third Party Remote Access Apps

There are many apps on the market, but not all of them will allow you to use multiple monitors during a remote desktop connection. You should shop around a bit to find the best and the most popular programs for you and your computer.

AnyDesk

Available for: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux

You can use AnyDesk to split your screen during a remote desktop session easily, though the app offers much more than that. The software allows you to access a computer via your smartphone, tablet, or any other device. The setup is straightforward and you can use the app to take hold of another computer, transfer files, and record screen sessions. Its main strength is that it works on most platforms.

Remote Desktop Manager

Available for: Windows, macOS, Android, iOS

The Remote Desktop Manager will help you access any device remotely. You can use the software to create a split screen connection, but it’s also great for file management. It comes with many features designed for secure file sharing and user administration. The user interface is easy to navigate and you will be able to do a lot with this simple software.

RoyalTS

Available for: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android

RoyalTS is a reliable remote desktop connection program that allows you to access multiple machines quickly and easily. It comes with built-in team sharing options, which is why it’s a popular choice among System Admins. The user interface needs some getting used to, but the software allows you all kinds of connections including RDP, VNC, S/FTP, and SSH.

mRemoteNG

Available for: Windows

mRemoteNG is a great program if you have to jump between multiple sessions. It’s used as a central tool that connects multiple sessions, including RDP, VNC, SSH, Telnet, ICA, RAW, and other connection types. The program is easy to get around, and it allows you to keep track of multiple connections, share files, split screens, create groups, and so much more.

Access Any Device in Seconds

The remote desktop access feature is handy for system administration. All of the programs we covered can provide you a safe connection to another device. You can use them to share files, keep track of what’s happening on multiple devices, and you can use the split-screen option to keep everything in front of you at the same time. It will take a little getting used to, but once you master the RDP connection, you will be able to get a lot done in no time.