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Overview

This page

provides instructions on connecting to RDS via a RDP client

outlines the steps to connect to RDS using the Windows app on supported laptop and desktop operating systems.

Currently

At present, both Windows and macOS are supported.

 Users preferring to connect the RDS within their web browser should follow the instructions found on the 

macOS

Download and install the Microsoft Remote Desktop Mac App
Open the RDP file for the desired RDS pool.
You will be prompted with a login
  • Under username, enter your email:  <Your NetID>@syr.edu
    • Under password, enter: <Your NetID Password>

    Troubleshooting

    Problem:   

    RDP Error -   "There was a problem connecting to the remote resource. Ask your network administrator for help"

    Solution: 

    Fix the registry key to force the RDP to use RPC/HTTP connections instead of HTTP/UDP connection.

    Steps:

    Press Windows + R to open run and type Regedit. Press the Enter key
    Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER > Software > Microsoft > Terminal Server Client
    Navigate to the right-hand pane, right-click, and choose New > DWORD (32-bit value)
    Name this option as “RDGClientTransport.”
  • Double-click this newly-created file. Its properties will open, and here, look for an option to set the value data. Enter the value 1. Click OK and close the Windows registry.

    • Reference:  How to fix remote desktop can't connect error

    Need Help?

    If at any time you require additional assistance, please contact the ITS Help Desk by voice at 315.443.2677 or by email at help@syr.edu

    If you'd rather access RDS directly within your web browser, please refer to the "Remote Desktop Services via Browser" page for guidance.

    On This Page

    Table of Contents

    Before you Connect

    Before you connect, please note the following important considerations for using the RDS solutions.

    Save your work to your network (H:\) drive

    Just like physical labs, any files saved to the local hard drives will be removed.

    Save your work often

    Although we consider the RDS platform to be stable, working remotely brings many factors into play, such as unexpected network outages, ISP issues or problems with your home network or personal devices. Saving often will help avoid losing your hard work and valuable time.
    Only one (1) session can be active per user. Logging into another session will disconnect from the previous and reconnect on the new session.
    Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge are the recommended browsers for connecting through the web user interface (WebUI).
    Users are required to have their Microsoft Two-Factor Authentication setup before using RDS.
    Idle sessions will automatically be logged out after four (4) hours.

    Retrieving and RDP file for RDS

    You must first receive the RDP file from the web client in order to connect through the RDP client. 

    Recommended Browsers: Please note that recommended browsers include Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, or Mozilla Firefox.

    Using a web browser, navigate to rds.syr.edu.
    If you are not logged in already, you will be prompted to do so using your University NetID and password.
    RDS login pageImage RemovedIn the top right is a sprocket icon, Sprocket IconImage Removed, click on it.
    RDS login pageImage RemovedIn the Settings Pane select the radio button to "Download the rdp file". 
    Settings PaneImage Removed
  • After selecting the "Download the rdp file" setting, on the main screen of the web page select a resource pool, such as SULabs. When clicking on a resource pool, an RDP file will now be downloaded and can be used.

    • Connect to RDS via a RDP Client

    Once you have retrieved the RDP file using the steps above, you are ready to connect your device. Follow the instruction below based on your operating system. 

    Note
    titleRDP File Required to Proceed

    You must first receive the RDP file from the web client in order to connect through the RDP client. Follow the instructions above before attempting to connect on Windows and macOS.

    Windows

    Open the RDP file for the desired RDS pool. 
  • You will be prompted with a login
    1. Under username, enter your email: <Your NetID>@syr.edu
    2. Under password, enter: <Your NetID Password>
    • minLevel3
    maxLevel3
    outlinefalse
    styledefault
    exclude^(Problem:|Solution:)
    typelist
    printabletrue

     

    Connect to RDS via Remote Desktop

    Instructions

    1. Installation

    2. Launch the Windows App on your OS and click “Sign In” and sign in with your @syr.edu email and password.

    A screenshot of the Windows App sign in screenImage Added

    1. Click “Skip” on the welcome screen.

    A screenshot of the Windows App welcome screenImage Added

    1. Under Devices, locate “Azure Virtual Desktop - Windows” and below it, click “Connect”. If prompted for a password, enter your NetID password.

    A screenshot of the Windows App Devices screenImage Added

    1. If you receive a popup asking “Allow remote desktop connection”, click “Yes”.

    A screenshot of a popup asking Allow Remote Desktop ConnectionImage Added


    Getting Help

    We're here to ensure you have a smooth experience with RDS. If you need assistance:

    • Students: Feel free to reach out to the ITS Help Desk directly. Call us at 315-443-2677, email at help@syr.edu, or drop by our in-person Service Center. Further information regarding hours and location can be found on the ITS Service Center page.

    • Faculty and Staff: For the most efficient support, it's recommended to start with your respective academic or administrative support teams. They're equipped with tools and knowledge tailored to your needs.