Connect to Windows

Using Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) to connect to a Windows Server

This method of connecting to a Windows server is preferred because it provides you with a fully functional Windows desktop.

Your remote desktop session does not expire if you simply close its window or otherwise disconnect from it. You can reconnect to the session later, from anywhere, and all your open applications should still be running. The session will only end if you log out from it, or if the machine is shelved or rebooted.

• If you use a Windows machine:
  Use the Remote Desktop Connection to connect. This software, which Microsoft is renaming "Windows App", is pre-installed on Windows desktops. To run it, find Windows Accessories in your Start menu, then click Remote Desktop Connection.
• If you use macOS:
  Search for "Windows App" (formerly Microsoft Remote Desktop) at the App Store. It works much like the Remote Desktop Connection in Windows. Tip: if authentication fails, make sure your software updates are current.
• If you use Unix or Linux:
  You can access Windows machines with Remmina, a free and open source remote desktop client. It can be installed through your package manager on most Unix and Linux systems. Another option is the older rdesktop client.