A gateway is any computer that connects two networks that use different network protocols. A gateway reformats information from one network so that it's compatible with the other network.
A Remote Desktop Gateway (RD Gateway) server is a type of gateway that enables authorized users to connect to remote computers on a corporate network from any computer with an Internet connection. RD Gateway uses the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) along with the HTTPS protocol to help create a more secure, encrypted connection.
In earlier versions of Remote Desktop Connection, people couldn't connect to remote computers across firewalls and network address translators because port 3389—the port used for Remote Desktop connections—is typically blocked to enhance network security. However, an RD Gateway server uses port 443, which transmits data through a Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) tunnel.
An RD Gateway server provides these benefits:
Enables Remote Desktop connections to a corporate network from the Internet without having to set up virtual private network (VPN) connections.
Enables connections to remote computers across firewalls.
Allows you to share a network connection with other programs running on your computer. This enables you to use your ISP connection instead of your corporate network to send and receive data over the remote connection.
Ask your network administrator whether you need to specify an RD Gateway server.
Open Remote Desktop Connection by clicking the Start button . In the search box, type Remote Desktop Connection, and then, in the list of results, click Remote Desktop Connection.
Click Options, click the Advanced tab, and then, under Connect from anywhere, click Settings.
Select Use these RD Gateway server settings, and then type the server name (ask your network administrator for this information).
Select one of the three available logon methods:
Allow me to select later. This option lets you select a logon method when you connect.
Ask for password (NTLM). This option prompts you for a password when you connect.
Smart card. This option prompts you to insert a smart card when you connect.
Select or clear the Bypass RD Gateway server for local addresses check box.
Selecting this check box prevents traffic to and from local network addresses from being routed through the RD Gateway server. This can make your connection faster.
Your network administrator might not allow changes to RD Gateway server settings.