Access Your UAA Windows PC Remotely

Overview

This article outlines the steps to use the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) to connect to your on-campus UAA Windows PC from an off-campus Windows or Mac computer.

 

In this article:

What materials do I need?

  • A Windows or Mac computer to connect from
  • IP Address or Full Device Name of the remote Windows computer. For example:
    • IP Address can be in the format, 137.229.123.123, or
    • Full Device Name: ANC-ABC1234.ua.ad.alaska.edu
  • UA username and current UA password.
    • If you forgot your UA username or password, please visit the ME.UAA account recovery website.
  • Connected to GlobalProtect VPN if you are off-campus

How do I use this technology?

Remote Desktop from a Windows Computer

  1. Ensure you are connected to GlobalProtect VPN if you are off-campus.
  2. In the Windows Search bar on the bottom of your screen, type in Remote Desktop Connection.
  3. Click on the Remote Desktop Connection app from the search results.
    Remote Desktop App

  1. In the Remote Desktop Connection window, type the IP address or the Full Device Name of the Windows device that you want to connect to.
    Computer name or IP address

  2.  Click Connect.
    Remote Desktop Connect button

  3. The Remote Desktop connection initiates the remote connection; then you’re asked to enter your credentials.
    Enter your credentials window, asking for Username and password.

  4. Enter your UA username and password.
    Credentials for RDP

  5. Click OK.
    OK button for credentials

  6. If you’re informed that the remote computer couldn’t be authenticated due to problems with its security certificate, click Yes to connect anyway.
    Yes button for cerificate

  7. You’re now connected to the remote computer and can use it as if it were your local computer.

Remote Desktop from a Mac Computer

  1. Ensure you are connected to the GlobalProtect VPN if you are off-campus.
  2. Hold the Command (⌘) key, then press the Spacebar on the keyboard to bring up Spotlight Search.
  3. Type in Microsoft Remote Desktop.
  4. Open the Microsoft Remote Desktop app from the search results.
    1. If you do not have Microsoft Remote Desktop installed, you will need to install it from the Mac App Store.
      Microsoft Remote Desktop in the App Store
       
  5. Click the Connections menu .
  6. Select Add PC.
  7. In the PC name field, enter the IP address or computer name of your computer on campus.
  8. In the Friendly name field, enter a name or short description of the computer.
  9. Click the blue Add button.
  10. Double-click your computer in Microsoft Remote Desktop
  11. When prompted for your account, in the Username field, enter UA\ followed by your UA Username.
    Login prompt
     
  12. In the Password field, enter your current UA password.
  13. If prompted about the certificate for your computer's IP address or computer name, click the Continue button.
    Certificate warning.
     
  14. You’re now connected to the remote computer and can use it as if it were your local computer.

 

Errors

Important
If you receive the error message below, it indicates that your remote computer is either turned off or unavailable for connection. If a technician from the Technical Support Center is unable to connect to the computer for a reboot, a ticket will need to be submitted to Field Services. If this situation is deemed a work stoppage, a labor charge may be applicable.

Remote Desktop Connection Error Message

Need additional help or have issues

For support, requests may be submitted anytime using the Support for Issues with University Computer(s) ticket form. Requests generate a Ticket which will be worked in order received and urgency by IT Employees with the knowledge and permissions to assist with the request.

For immediate assistance please review the Contact IT page for the appropriate support group.

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