How to Access an Azure (Microsoft) Virtual Desktop

Questions

  • How do I access an Azure Virtual Desktop at Bowdoin?
  • How do I set up the Windows App for Azure Virtual Desktop on my Mac?
  • How do I connect to an Azure Virtual Desktop on my iPad?
  • How do I add a Bowdoin workspace in the Windows App?
  • How do I access a virtual desktop from a Windows 11 computer?
  • Can I access a Bowdoin virtual desktop through a web browser?
  • What is the Windows App, and how does it replace Microsoft Remote App?
  • How do I log in to an Azure Virtual Desktop for the first time?
  • Where is the Lab Desktop in Azure Virtual Desktop?
  • How do I install the Windows App on a personal Mac?

Environment

This article applies to Bowdoin faculty, staff, and students with access to Azure Virtual Desktops. Setup instructions are available for the following platforms:

  • macOS (Sequoia 15.x, Tahoe 26.x) — Bowdoin-managed and personal computers
  • Windows 11 — Bowdoin-managed and personal computers
  • iPad — using the Windows App from the App Store or Self Service
  • Web browser — Chrome, Firefox, or Edge on any device

Resolution

Azure Virtual Desktops are accessed using the Windows App (formerly Microsoft Remote App). The Windows App is pre-installed on Bowdoin-managed Macs and most Bowdoin-managed Windows computers. A web-browser option is also available without any installation.

Finding your Virtual Desktop: After connecting, all Virtual Desktops you have access to will appear in the Windows App. Each workspace is identifiable by name. If you are looking for the Lab Desktop, it is listed under the Lab 2024 section. Some staff may have access to more than one virtual desktop based on their job role.

iPad — First Time Setup

  1. Install the Windows App from the App Store or from Self Service.
  2. Open the Windows App.
  3. Tap the Workspaces icon in the bottom right of your screen.
  4. Tap the + in the upper right corner and choose Add Workspace.
  5. Enter your Bowdoin email address and tap Next.
  6. Sign in with your Bowdoin credentials when prompted.
  7. Tap on any Virtual Desktop to connect, and enter your Bowdoin credentials again when prompted.
  8. You will be signed in and see the Desktop.

macOS — First Time Setup

  1. Open the Windows App from your Applications folder.
    • On Bowdoin-managed computers, the Windows App is pre-installed.
    • On a personal Mac, download the Windows App from Self Service (faculty and staff) or the Mac App Store. See Self Service for macOS & iPadOS in the Related Articles section for installation instructions.
  2. Click the Workspaces tab in the top right of the Windows App.
  3. Click the + icon at the top and choose Add Workspace.
  4. Enter your Bowdoin email address and click Add.
  5. Sign in with your Bowdoin credentials when prompted.
  6. Click on the Virtual Desktop you want to connect to and enter your Bowdoin credentials when prompted.
  7. You will be signed in and see the Desktop.

Windows 11 — First Time Setup

  1. Open the Windows App. On most Bowdoin-managed computers it is already installed — search for it from the Start menu. If it is not found, open Company Portal and install the Windows App from there.
  2. Click Subscribe.
  3. If prompted, sign in with your Bowdoin credentials.
  4. When prompted, uncheck Allow my organization to manage my device and click OK.
  5. Click Done.
  6. Click on the Virtual Desktop you want to connect to and enter your Bowdoin credentials when prompted.
  7. You will be signed in and see the Desktop.

Web Browser — Connect Without Installing the App

  1. Open Chrome, Firefox, or Edge and go to rdweb.wvd.microsoft.com/arm/webclient/index.html.
  2. Sign in with your Bowdoin credentials when prompted.
  3. Click on the Virtual Desktop you want to connect to and enter your Bowdoin credentials when prompted.
  4. You will be signed in and see the Desktop.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
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Related Articles (4)

How to Access an Azure Virtual Lab Desktop
The Bowdoin Azure Virtual Computer Lab provides access to Windows-based lab software from any macOS, Windows, or iPad device, on or off campus. This article explains how to connect to the virtual lab environment, including what to expect after first-time setup.
Self Service for macOS & iPadOS
Information about the Self Service app for macOS, and iPadOS
Setup Folder Redirection for Azure Virtual Desktop on macOS
Instructions for setting up folder redirection in the Windows App on macOS so that a local Mac folder is accessible inside an Azure Virtual Desktop. Also covers how to locate the redirected folder once connected to the virtual desktop.
Virtual Computer Lab Software
Lists all software currently installed in the Bowdoin Azure Virtual Computer Lab, which runs Windows 11. Includes Microsoft 365, academic applications, and web tools. Faculty and students can request additional software not currently available.