Using Remote Desktop (Windows)

This guide contains instructions on how to set up your computer for remote desktop access, as well as how to access that computer remotely.

Table of Contents

• Details
  • Restrictions
• Enable Remote Desktop
• Set Power Options
• VPN
  • Off-Campus
  • On-Campus
• Connecting

Details

Did you know that you can use your office computer remotely? This guide contains instructions on how to set up your computer for Remote Desktop access, as well as how to access that computer remotely. Off-campus devices require connection to Palo Alto GlobalProtect VPN, while On-campus devices do not require any VPN. 

Restrictions

UTD Windows computers can be set up to allow you to use your computer remotely. Please keep the following restrictions in mind when setting up a Remote Desktop:

• Currently, we do not provide a way for remote access into a UTD Mac Computer.
• You must be an Administrator on the device.
• Your office computer must be left on.

Enable Remote Desktop

In most cases, you will likely already be an Administrator on your Office Computer, the Remote Desktop will be on, and the computer should be set to not go to sleep when plugged in.

However, if you are having issues, make sure of the following:

• Press the Windows button in the bottom left.
• Click the Gear icon to open the "Settings" menu.
• Select the System icon under "Settings".
• In the System window, click on the Remote Desktop link from the list on the left-hand side.
• Toggle on  Remote Desktop.

Follow the instructions for Set Power Options, to keep your Computer from sleeping or hibernating so that it will be available to log into with Remote Desktop.

Set Power Options

Keep your computer on and avoid the device sleeping or hibernating to be available for remote use.

• Press the Windows button in the bottom left.
• Click the Gear icon to open the "Settings" menu.
• Choose the Power and Sleep option from the list on the left-hand side.
• Under "Sleep", make sure When plugged in, the PC goes to sleep after is set to Never.

VPN

Off-Campus

If you are off-campus, you will need to connect to VPN before connecting remotely to your computer.

• Sign up for Duo, if you have not already.
• Connect to the VPN.

On-Campus

If you are on campus and connected to CometNet, you will not need to connect to the VPN.

Connecting

• Search for and open the Remote Desktop Connection application.

• In the Remote Desktop Connection panel, enter the full name of the computer and select Connect.
  • Example: UTD123456.campus.ad.utdallas.edu

• Enter your Username as campus\NetID and your Password when prompted and click OK.