SMUS Virtual Desktop

Introduction

Here are the instructions for using the SMUS virtual desktop. These instructions have changed since last year and your previous setup will no longer work.

It can be used to 'log in' to a SMUS computer no matter where you are, or what type of device you are using. You will have access to your regular network drives - such as your H: drive, and all SMUS programs (even if they are not installed on your own device). It's as if you are sitting at a school machine!

New for September 2014

The virtual desktop is now based on the Windows 8.1 experience. Everything should work mostly the same as you're used to, but the start button will bring you to a different apps view that works better on tablets and touch devices.

The hardest part is figuring out how to log out. The best two ways to do this are:

1. Right click the start button, then choose Shut down or sign out -> Sign out
2. Click the start button, click and drag downwards, click your name, then click Sign Out

How to use Virtual Desktop

Please follow these instructions ON the device you are using:

Windows 8.1, 8, 7, Vista

• Click on this link: SMUS Virtual Desktop and run the file it downloads
• Check the box "Don't ask me again for remote connections from this publisher" and click Connect
• Sign in using your regular SMUS username/password
• To use the program repeatedly, save the SMUS Virtual Desktop file from the above link, then run the file from your Downloads folder to launch it any time

Macintosh, iOS, or Android

• Go to the following link and install the Microsoft RDP client
  • Microsoft RDP Client for Mac
  • Microsoft RDP Client for iOS (iPad, iPhone, iPod)
  • Microsoft RDP Client for Android
• Run the RD Client app on your device
• Choose "Remote Resources" or "Add remote resources". Depending on your device, you may need to click on a toolbar button or drop down a selection at the top of the screen.
• Enter the following settings:
  • URL: https://desktop.smus.ca/rdweb/feed/webfeed.aspx (you can copy and paste this into the URL field)
  • User name: user.name (your SMUS username)
  • Password: your SMUS password
• Tap DesktopFarm to log in
• If you are prompted to accept a certificate for smus.ca, choose "always trust smus.ca" and continue

Once you have set up the Remote Resources section, you can skip straight to tapping on DesktopFarm in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Installing RDP Client on Mac says it needs Mac OS X 10.7 to install

You will need to upgrade the version of Mac OS X running on your computer. This is generally a good idea anyway, as only 10.7 and above are receiving security updates now.

Instructions on how to install the free upgrade are available on the Apple website

If your Mac can't run 10.7 or above, it's time to throw it away and buy a new one.