How to Check If Someone Is Remotely Accessing Your Computer on Windows 11

By / October 17, 2025

Have you ever felt like your computer is behaving strangely — the mouse moves on its own, files open randomly, or your internet seems slower than usual? 😨
If so, you might wonder: “Is someone remotely accessing my computer?”

In Windows 11, remote access tools make it easy to control your PC from another location — which is great for IT support or personal use. But in the wrong hands, they can be a major security risk.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to check if someone is remotely accessing your Windows 11 PC, how to stop them, and how to secure your system going forward.

🧭 Key Takeaways (Quick Summary)

  • 🔍 You can detect remote access using Task Manager, Command Prompt, or Event Viewer.

  • 🧑‍💻 Suspicious remote access often involves unknown processes, network activity, or enabled remote desktop settings.

  • 🧱 Always disable Remote Desktop and Remote Assistance if not needed.

  • 🛡️ Use Windows Security, firewall, and antivirus tools to prevent unauthorized access.

What Is Remote Access in Windows 11?

Remote access allows someone to control your computer from another location using a network or internet connection.

Common Legitimate Uses Include:

  • IT technicians troubleshooting issues remotely.

  • Accessing your own PC files while traveling.

  • Using Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP).

  • Using third-party tools like TeamViewer, AnyDesk, or Chrome Remote Desktop.

However, hackers can exploit these same tools to spy on your system, steal files, or gain control.

How to Tell If Someone Is Remotely Accessing Your Computer on Windows 11

Let’s break down the most effective ways to detect remote activity.

🧩 Method 1: Check Active Remote Desktop Connections

Windows 11 comes with Remote Desktop built in. If it’s active, someone might be connected to your PC.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.

  2. Type:

    cmd

    and hit Enter.

  3. In the Command Prompt, type:

    query user

  4. Press Enter.

You’ll see a list of all currently logged-in users.

  • If you notice another username or session marked as “Active” that you don’t recognize — it could mean someone is connected remotely.

🧩 Method 2: Check Remote Desktop Settings

  1. Press Win + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to System → Remote Desktop.

  3. Make sure Remote Desktop is turned off unless you intentionally use it.

If it’s on and you didn’t enable it, disable it immediately.

🧩 Method 3: Look for Suspicious Background Processes

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

  2. Go to the Processes tab.

  3. Look for unknown or suspicious programs using a lot of CPU or network resources.

Common red flags include:

  • Programs like TeamViewer, AnyDesk, Chrome Remote Desktop, or UltraVNC that you didn’t install.

  • Background processes with random names like svhost.exe (instead of legitimate svchost.exe).

👉 Tip: Right-click a process → Open file location to verify if it’s legitimate.

🧩 Method 4: Check Network Activity

  1. Press Win + I → Network & Internet → Advanced network settings.

  2. Open Data usage and review which apps have consumed unusual amounts of data.

  3. For deeper inspection, press Win + X → Windows Terminal (Admin) and type:

    netstat -ano

    • This command shows all active connections and their IP addresses.

    • Look for foreign IPs or connections you don’t recognize.

If something suspicious shows up, note the PID (process ID) and cross-check it in Task Manager → Details tab to find which program it belongs to.

🧩 Method 5: Review Event Viewer Logs

  1. Press Win + R, type eventvwr.msc, and hit Enter.

  2. Navigate to:
    Windows Logs → Security

  3. Look for events like 4624 (Successful Logon) or 4634 (Logoff).

If you see unfamiliar logon times or accounts, someone might have accessed your PC remotely.

🧩 Method 6: Check Installed Remote Control Software

  1. Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.

  2. This opens the Programs and Features window.

  3. Look for any remote control software you didn’t install, such as:

    • AnyDesk

    • TeamViewer

    • Chrome Remote Desktop

    • LogMeIn

    • VNC Connect

If you find one, uninstall it immediately.

🧩 Method 7: Review Remote Assistance Settings

  1. Press Win + S, type Remote Assistance, and select Allow Remote Assistance invitations to be sent from this computer.

  2. Uncheck the box labeled Allow Remote Assistance connections to this computer.

  3. Click Apply → OK.

This prevents others from controlling your computer via Remote Assistance.

🧩 Method 8: Check Windows Firewall Rules

A hacker might have modified your firewall settings to allow remote access.

  1. Search for Windows Defender Firewall and open it.

  2. Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.

  3. Scroll through the list — if you see unknown or suspicious apps allowed through, uncheck them.

🧩 Method 9: Check for New User Accounts

  1. Press Win + R, type netplwiz, and press Enter.

  2. In the User Accounts window, review all listed users.

  3. If you spot an unfamiliar username, that could be a remote intruder.

    • Select it and click Remove to delete it.

🧩 Method 10: Check Startup Programs

  1. Open Task Manager.

  2. Go to the Startup tab.

  3. Disable any suspicious apps set to run at startup.

Hackers sometimes install malware that launches automatically when Windows starts.

What to Do If You Suspect Someone Is Accessing Your PC Remotely

If you think your PC has been compromised, don’t panic — take these steps immediately.

1. Disconnect from the Internet

Unplug your Ethernet cable or turn off Wi-Fi to cut off remote access.

2. Run a Full Virus and Malware Scan

Use Windows Security → Virus & threat protection → Full scan.
Or try a reputable tool like Malwarebytes for deeper scanning.

3. Change Your Passwords

Change your Windows account password, Microsoft account, and any sensitive login credentials.

4. Disable Remote Features

Turn off both Remote Desktop and Remote Assistance to close the door on future attacks.

5. Check Your Router

Log into your router’s admin panel and change the Wi-Fi password.
Update the router’s firmware if necessary.

Bonus: How to Secure Your Windows 11 PC Against Remote Access

Here are the best practices to prevent future intrusions:

  • 🔒 Use Strong Passwords: Avoid easy passwords like “1234” or “password.”

  • 🔐 Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Especially for your Microsoft account.

  • 🧱 Keep Firewall Enabled: Always keep Windows Defender Firewall active.

  • 🧩 Install Security Updates: Keep Windows and all software up-to-date.

  • 🧠 Be Careful with Email Links: Phishing scams often install remote access malware.

  • 🚫 Disable Remote Desktop: Unless you absolutely need it.

Difference Between Authorized and Unauthorized Remote Access

Type Description Example Risk Level
Authorized Access Legitimate remote connection for troubleshooting or personal use. IT support, Microsoft Remote Desktop Low
Unauthorized Access Hacking or spyware that controls your system without permission. Hidden RATs, phishing malware Very High

How to Check If Someone Accessed Your PC When It Was Locked

  1. Press Win + X → Event Viewer.

  2. Go to Windows Logs → Security.

  3. Look for Event ID 4624 (logon) or 4672 (admin privileges).

  4. Check the Time and Account Name fields for suspicious activity.

Conclusion

Detecting remote access on your Windows 11 PC isn’t complicated — you just need to know where to look. By checking active sessions, network connections, event logs, and installed software, you can spot unauthorized activity early and lock things down before it’s too late.

Always remember: Prevention is your strongest defense. Keep your system updated, disable unnecessary remote features, and use strong security practices.

With these steps, you can ensure your PC stays safe, private, and fully under your control.

FAQs

1. How do I know if someone is remotely connected to my Windows 11 PC?
Use the command query user or check Task Manager → Users tab for active sessions you don’t recognize.

2. Can someone access my PC if it’s turned off?
No, remote access only works when your PC is powered on and connected to the internet.

3. What’s the difference between Remote Desktop and Remote Assistance?
Remote Desktop gives full control of your PC, while Remote Assistance lets someone view or guide you with permission.

4. How do I block remote access completely?
Disable Remote Desktop and Remote Assistance, and keep your firewall on.

5. Is it safe to use remote access software?
Yes, as long as it’s legitimate, updated, and used with strong passwords and 2FA.

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