What is Remote Desktop?

Remote Desktop is a remote desktop session available to Whitman faculty, staff, and students by logging into https://rds.syr.edu. It provides a Computer Lab experience accessible over the internet and from any internet-connected device. Whitman Remote Desktop is the best way for students to use course-required software. 

How to access Remote Desktop?

• Via Web Browser
• Via PC
• Via Mac

How to access Virtual Machines from Remote Desktop Services? (Double Hop)

• How to Remote in VM from Remote Desktop Services from unmanaged device.

Why do we have it?

We have Remote Desktop for three reasons:

• There are some software programs which due to licensing terms and restrictions, cannot be installed on personal computers.
• It provides access to Windows-only programs for people who use Apple computers.
• It guarantees an up-to-date and consistent experience when using Whitman software.

Who has access to Remote Desktop?

• Whitman Active Faculty
• Whitman Active Staff
• Students enrolled in Whitman courses

What should you know about Remote Desktop?

• Your G:  Network Drive and OneDrive are automatically mapped for you. 
• All the software available in our labs is also available on Whitman Remote Desktop; it will look just like the labs

What software is available on Whitman Remote Desktop?

Click here for the full list of software installed on Whitman Remote Desktop

Known Issues

Microsoft Activation:

• When you are on an office and you receive the error below you will need to sign out of office and sign back in. For instructions follow this link: How to sign in and out of Microsoft Office in Whitman Remote Desktop

RDS - Web User Interface Issues

• Going into Full-Screen mode (double-ended arrow next to the gear) can cause the connection to go black. This issue currently is known to affect all browsers.

  • Resolution: Reload the browser page, you will be brought back into your active session after you log back in.
  • Workaround: set rds.syr.edu to download the .rdp file rather than using the in-browser experience - click the gear, then the radio button for "Download the .rdp file"
    • https://video.syr.edu/media/t/1_z8o4r8an
• Keyboard and Mouse input issues. This is a local hardware compatibility issue --with varied models of laptops\desktops\keyboards\mice.
  • Resolution: Utilize an alternative connection method to RDS (.rdp file).

Errors and Resolution:   "Connection Failed: The RDP file could not be downloaded.   If this keeps happening, please contact your system administrator"

Resolution:   Clear browser cache - and reload RDS.SYR.EDU. (How to clear your browser's cache.)