Open a command line on the device (remote console)

What it is for

The remote console opens a command line on the device — as if you sat in front of it, but from the console and without a session. Under Windows you choose cmd or PowerShell, under Linux and macOS a Bash starts. The remote console is an add-on module: every device you use it on needs a seat.

What you need

• A sign-in to the console with the role technician or higher.
• Seats for the add-on module remote console: bought per access in the Cloud (not in Free), in the licence with your own relay (A6, Prices). In the Cloud also the service "Scripts".
• Switched on at the device: device setting Remote console (command line) set to On (off out of the box).
• The device is online.

How to do it

Step 1: Switch the remote console on at the device

One of these places is enough:

• Device details → Overview → row Remote console → Enable.
• Device list: right-click → Manage → Enable console — also for several ticked devices.
• For all devices of the access: device setting Remote console (command line) in the access (G2).

The device takes over the setting at its next connection.

Step 2: Open

1. In the device list right-click the device → Access → Remote console. Or in the details on the left under Remote access → Remote console.
2. A separate window opens for this device. If the browser blocks it, allow pop-ups for the console.
3. Under Windows choose cmd (Windows) or PowerShell (Windows) under Shell. Under Linux and macOS a Bash starts regardless.
4. Connect. The command line appears in the window.
5. Done: Disconnect or close the window.

As another Windows user

As another user… starts the command line under another Windows account. The password travels encrypted to the device; the relay does not see it. Windows only.

How you know it worked

• Next to the buttons Not connected yet changes to "connected · <device name>", the device's prompt appears in the window.
• The column Licence in the device list shows active for the remote console feature; the device now has a seat.
• The audit log lists the opening with your name.

Good to know

• The seat stays with the device. The first opening takes it, and it only becomes free when the device is deleted or the licensing office releases it. Assigning and viewing seats: G24.
• The command line runs with the rights of the BrowserDesk program on the device — with the service as system or root.
• The command line in a session is something else: during a remote session the viewer has its own command line (E29). It does not depend on the add-on module, only on the device setting Remote command line via viewer (exec). The add-on module only locks the remote console from the administration.
• Control only from your own access (G3) does not block the remote console — it is administration, not a computer connecting.
• A person at the device sees nothing of the remote console; there is no question. The device owner can block it with a local policy on the device.
• Short version as a knowledge-base article: Enable the remote console.

If it does not work