Remote Desktop

Remote Desktop

Remote Desktop is a protocol developed by Microsoft designed to allow a user the ability to remotely access a windows computer. This tool is included in most versions of Microsoft Windows starting with NT 4.0. You must be connected to the UMIACS VPN to use the Remote Desktop Client outside of our network.

Starting the Client on Windows 7

There are two methods of starting the client in Windows 7. The first method involves searching for it using the search box within the start menu:

Alternatively, you can click on Start-> All Programs-> Accessories -> Remote Desktop Connection to start the client:

Starting the Client on Windows XP

Click on Start-> All Programs-> Accessories -> Remote Desktop Connection. Depending on your specific version of Windows XP, the shortcut may be within the subdirectory "System Tools" of Accessories.

Connecting to the Machine

Once you have opened the Remote Desktop Connection program type in the name of the windows machine you would like to access, then click connect. For example, "jefferson.pc.umiacs.umd.edu":

If you are using Windows 7, upon first connection to a machine you may receive a pop up warning you must accept:

At this point you will directly arrive to a login screen identical to what you'd see if sitting physically in front of the machine. Make sure your domain is set to PC. This is what you may expect if the host is running Windows XP:

If you are connecting to a Windows 7 machine a window titled “Windows Security” will pop up which will require you to type in your credentials, then click OK.

If the screen above doesn’t show up and the one below comes up in place then you either typed the machine name incorrectly or the machine you want to connect isn’t on the PC domain.