Using Remote Desktop Services on a PC

Windows 10 Instructions

Windows 10 Instructions

There are two options.

1. A more persistent connection configured via Control Panel,which is explained first. This option creates a folder on your start menu with all the application shortcuts in it. You can then put a shortcut on your taskbar for easy access.
2. Access via Web Browser. This option is useful for shared computers or connecting via home computer once you have connected to the VPN. You don’t need to install anything. This option is explained second.

RDS Cluster (first time) setup on Windows 10 Via Control Panel

Win 10 RDS Setup in Brief -- This printer-friendly version has quick steps, no pictures!

1. Click the magnifying glass icon to the right of the Start button then search for RemoteApp.
2. Click RemoteApp and Desktop Connections in the results list.
3. Click Access RemoteApp and desktops in the left pane.



4. For the URL enter:

   https://middrds.middlebury.edu/rdweb/feed/webfeed.aspx







5. Enter your middlebury username and password. If you check the “Remember my credentials” box, you will see fewer prompts to login to some apps when you launch them the first time. Click on .









6. This will add a folder named “Middlebury College Remote Resources (RADC)” to the program list in your Start menu. It will contain all the icons you have access to. You can now launch any of the programs you have access to from this folder. Note: Unlike the Web Browser connection method, this connection shows all the icons in one list rather than in groupings.







The first time you connect to an app, you may see a screen like the one below. Check the box the arrow points to and click on





If you would like to know how to make shortcuts in Windows Explorer or the Task Bar for easier use of your applications, continue reading. If you would like to know how to connect using a Web Browser click HERE to skip to that section.

Creating a Shortcut on your Start Menu

This is the easiest method -- it's drag and drop:

1. Click the Start button, then expand the new Middlebury College Remote Resources folder that now appears in your program list.
2. Drag desired applications over to the Start Menu (the tiled area) at right.
   

That's it! To use your shortcuts, just click Start (or press the Windows key) , then click the desired tile on your Start Menu.

Creating a Shortcut for Use in File Explorer

1. Open File Explorer



2. Expand "This PC"

3. Select "Local disk (C:)"

4. Since the folder we need to find is likely to be hidden, we will type it in manually at the top of the screen.

5. For the text type in (or copy and paste it from below):

   C:\Users\yourusername\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs

   Replacing "yourusername" in the text with the username you use to login to your computer.




6. In the folder list, Right-Click on "Middlebury College Remote Resources (RADC)" and select "Pin to Quick access". The folder will now show up on your Quick access list in File Explorer.
   
   
   
   
   
   

   Creating a Shortcut on your Taskbar

7. Follow the section above Titled: "Creating a Shortcut for Use in File Explorer"
8. Right-Click on the tasbar at the bottom of your screen.
9. Select "Toolbars - New Toolbar"

10. Your File Explorer will open up. Select the "Middlebury College Remote Resources (RADC)" folder under your Quick access menu and then click on the "Select Folder" button.

11. There should now be an entry on your task bar. You can select one of the programs by clicking on the >> as show in the screenshot below.




RDS Cluster connection using a Web Browser


Many people prefer this access method as applications are grouped by folder, making the view less cluttered. For ease of access you can quickly add a shortcut to http://go.middlebury.edu/rds on your favorite browser.


1. Use http://go/rds/ or point your favorite web browser to https://middrds.middlebury.edu/RDWeb. Any current browser should work.



2. You should see a screen like the one above. Type in your credentials and click on the “Sign in” button. Note: You need to use midd\ before your username.



3. You will see a new screen like the one below. It will show folders and icons for Applications you have access to.



4. If you click on an icon you may get different results depending on the browser you are using. You may need to save the .rdp file, then go to your default save location and double-click on it to launch the file. If you need assistance with this step, please call the Helpdesk at X2200.
5. If you click on a folder (The Office 2010 Folder in this example), you will be presented with a new screen of icons.

If you have any additional questions, please contact the Helpdesk at X2200.