How to use Remote Desktop to access your Windows Workstation

Overview

This article will show the steps for using Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) to connect from one Windows computer to another Windows computer.

In this article:

• Using Remote Desktop from a Windows Computer
• Using Remote Desktop from a Mac Computer
• Errors

What materials do I need?

• A Windows or Mac computer
• IP address or computer name of the remote computer (the computer you are connecting to)
• Global Connect VPN

How do I use this technology?

Using Remote Desktop from a Windows Computer

1. Ensure you are connected to the GlobalProtect VPN if you are off-campus
   
   

2. Right-click the Start button

3. Left-click on search
   
   

4. Type remote 
   
   
    

5. Click on the Remote Desktop Connection, shown at the top of the pop-up window 
   
   
    

6. In the Remote Desktop connection window, type the IP address ( i.e 137.229.181.181)  or the name of the Windows device ( i.e. anc-dtw1234.ua.ad.alaska.edu) that you want to connect to
   
   
    

7.  Click Connect.
   
   
    

8. The Remote Desktop connection initiates the remote connection; then you’re asked to enter your credentials 
   
   
    

9. Enter your UA username and password
   
   
   

10. Click OK.
    
    

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

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

Using Remote Desktop from a Mac Computer

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

Errors

Need additional help or have issues

For support, requests may be submitted anytime using the Request Support form for the University Computers service. 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.