Remote Desktop Protocol
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is Microsoft's protocol for sending a remote computer's display to a client and carrying the client's keyboard and mouse input back to that computer.
RDP lets someone work in a remote desktop or application from another device. It is a particular protocol, not a name for every remote-support product. An RDP connection file contains settings for a connection, including its destination and requested features.
An outbound connection can share local resources
The employee’s device can initiate the connection while still exposing resources to the remote session. RDP supports redirection of items such as the clipboard, printers, and selected drives. Exactly what is available depends on the client, configuration, and effective policy.
Drive redirection is worth understanding before accepting an invitation. Microsoft’s property reference describes making selected local, removable, or network drives available inside the session. Connecting to see another desktop can therefore involve more than receiving a picture of its screen.
For an unexpected invitation, verify the destination and the resources the task needs before connecting. The RDP resource-sharing article explains the employee-as-client flow and how to distinguish a connection from actual file access.
Fake IT remote support covers a related but different decision: allowing a purported technician to assist with or control a device. Calling both situations “remote access” is reasonable, but the connection direction and permissions determine what to investigate.