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Broadcast WiFi using Surface Pro 7 (running Windows 10 Home) without internet connection

Avi 0 Reputation points
2025-07-11T16:31:40.1666667+00:00

Hello All,

Other variants of this question exist on the internet, but none of those proposed solutions work for me on my specific device: a Microsoft Surface 7 Pro running Windows Home.

I have a telescope rig which I control using my Surface 7 pro via the USB-C port. Works great...no complaints. But it also means that I need to be there in front of my tablet to issue new commands. If possible, I would like to remote into my Surface 7 and issue commands remotely or wirelessly.

TeamView/Chrome RDP etc. work perfectly, but require an internet connection, which I don't have "in the field". So I wanted to broadcast a dummy WiFi signal (using the Hotspot feature) through the Surface 7 and create a LAN by connecting everything to that WiFi hotspot. But the system will not let me do that no matter what I try.

What is the simplest way to accomplish this? I don't mind purchasing a stand-alone router (only requirement is it has to be powered by 12V DC or USB since I won't have a wall outlet near me).

Thanks!

Avi

Surface | Surface Pro | Network
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  1. Harold Milan 535 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-07-14T16:44:15.4733333+00:00

    Hi there Avi!

    Thanks for contacting Microsoft Support. I’m here to help you with your Concern.

    Let me clarify your concern, you want to remote your surface pro using Wi-Fi connection only? in that case here's the options for local RDP (no internet):

    OPTION 1:

    1. Same Local Network (Wi-Fi)
      • Both the Surface Pro 7 (client) and the target PC (host) must be connected to the same Wi-Fi router or access point.
    2. RDP Enabled on Host
      • The target PC must have Remote Desktop enabled:
      • Go to Settings > System > Remote Desktop and toggle it on.
    3. Correct IP Address
      • Use the local IP address of the host PC (e.g.,192.168.1.5 ) Press windows + R, type CMD, and press Enter.
      • In the Command Prompt window, type:
      • ipconfig
      1. Look for the section labeled Wireless LAN adapter Wi-Fi (or Ethernet adapter if you're wired).
      2. Find the line that says IPv4 Address — this is your local IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.5).
      • Look for the section labeled Wireless LAN adapter Wi-Fi (or Ethernet adapter if you're wired).
    4. Firewall Rules
      • Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall > Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
      • Make sure Remote Desktop is checked for both Private and Public networks.

    User Permissions

    • The user account you're using must have permission to connect remotely. OPTION 2:
    1. Use a Standalone Travel Router

    Since you're open to purchasing hardware, a portable travel router is a great solution. These devices can:

    • Create a local Wi-Fi network without internet.
    • Allow your Surface Pro and other devices (e.g., telescope controller, phone, tablet) to connect and communicate.
    • Be powered via USB or 12V DC, perfect for field use. Popular models include:
    • TP-Link TL-WR902AC (USB-powered)
    • GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 (compact and open-source friendly)
    1. Use Windows Hosted Network (Advanced)

    This method involves using command-line tools to create a virtual Wi-Fi network:

    • Requires a compatible Wi-Fi adapter.
    • May not work reliably on Windows 10 Home.
    • Setup involves netsh wlan commands.

    Note: This method is deprecated in newer Windows builds and may not be supported on all devices.

    1. Use Bluetooth or Direct USB Remote Tools

    Some telescope control software may support Bluetooth or USB-based remote control from another device. Check if your rig’s software offers this functionality.

    Final Tip
    Once your Surface and remote device are on the same local network (via router or hotspot), you can use Remote Desktop software that supports LAN mode, such as:

    • Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) if upgraded to Windows 10 Pro
    • You're not alone in this—we’re here to help you. Let me know if you need more clarification. I will be happy to assist you further.

    Best regards,

    Harold | Microsoft Community Support

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