How To Get Free RDP
June 13, 202610 min read

How To Get Free RDP

Complete step-by-step guide to get a free Windows Remote Desktop (RDP) using GitHub Actions and Tailscale. Works on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.

GitHubGitHub ActionsWindows RDPTailscale

Table of Contents

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What is RDP?

RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) is a protocol developed by Microsoft that allows you to connect to and control a remote Windows computer over the network.

It gives you full access to a Windows desktop environment from any device, whether you're using a Windows PC, Mac, iPhone, or Android phone. Think of it as having a powerful Windows computer that you can access from anywhere.

Requirements

  • A GitHub account (free tier is enough)
  • A Tailscale account (free tier available)
  • A device with Remote Desktop client (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android)
  • Stable internet connection

Tools Used

GitHub

Source code hosting & CI/CD

GitHub Actions

Automated workflow for RDP

Windows RDP

Remote Desktop client

Tailscale

Secure VPN mesh network

Step 1: Fork the GitHub Repository

  1. Go to the GitHub repository for the RDP workflow
  2. Click the "Fork" button to create your own copy
  3. Make sure the workflow files are included in your fork

Step 2: Get Your Tailscale Auth Key

  1. Sign up at tailscale.com
  2. Go to Settings → Keys
  3. Generate a new Auth Key
  4. Copy the key - you'll need it in the next step

Your Tailscale Auth Key:

TAILSCALE_AUTH_KEY

Step 3: Add Secrets to GitHub

  1. Go to your forked repository on GitHub
  2. Navigate to Settings → Secrets and variables → Actions
  3. Click "New repository secret"
  4. Name: TAILSCALE_AUTH_KEY
  5. Value: Paste your Tailscale Auth Key
  6. Click "Add secret"

Step 4: Run the Workflow

  1. Go to the Actions tab in your repository
  2. Select the RDP workflow
  3. Click "Run workflow"
  4. Wait for the workflow to complete (usually 5-10 minutes)

Step 5: Connect via Remote Desktop

  1. Open the Remote Desktop app on your device
  2. Enter the Tailscale IP address of your RDP instance
  3. Login with the credentials provided in the workflow output
  4. Enjoy your free Windows RDP!

Important Notes

  • This uses GitHub Actions free tier - you get 2,000 minutes/month for free
  • The RDP instance will be available as long as the workflow is running
  • Tailscale free tier supports up to 100 devices
  • Always follow GitHub's Terms of Service
  • For longer sessions, consider upgrading to GitHub Actions paid tier

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this RDP method completely free?
Yes, this method uses GitHub Actions free tier (2,000 minutes/month) and Tailscale free tier (up to 100 devices). You don't need to pay anything.
How long does the RDP stay active?
The RDP instance stays active as long as the GitHub Actions workflow is running. You can set it up to run for up to 6 hours per session on the free tier.
Is it safe to use this method?
Yes, Tailscale provides encrypted connections between your devices. Your RDP traffic is secured through Tailscale's mesh VPN network.
Can I use this on mobile devices?
Yes! You can connect to your RDP from any device that supports Remote Desktop - Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.
What happens when the workflow stops?
When the workflow stops, the RDP instance will be terminated. You can restart it anytime by running the workflow again.
Do I need coding experience?
No, this tutorial is beginner-friendly. Just follow the step-by-step instructions and you'll have your RDP running in minutes.
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