How to Access an Azure (Microsoft) Virtual Desktop

Azure virtual desktops can be accessed by using the Microsoft Remote Desktop client or through the web using Chrome, FireFox or Edge.  

iPad First Time Setup Instructions

  • Install the "Remote Desktop Mobile" App from the App Store or "Self Service".
  • Open the Remote Desktop Mobile app you just installed. 
  • Tap on the Workspaces icon on the bottom right of your screen.
  • Tap the plus (+) in the upper right hand corner and choose "Add Workspace".
  • Enter your Bowdoin Email address and tap Next
  • Login with your Bowdoin credentials when prompted.
  • All Workspaces/Virtual Desktops you have access to will show up.
    • Some staff may have access to more than one virtual desktop based on their job role.
    • Each workspace will be easily identifiable by name.
    • If you're looking for the Lab Desktop its located under the Lab 2024 section
  • Tap on any of them to connect and enter your Bowdoin credentials.
  • You will be logged in and see the Desktop. 

macOS First Time Setup Instructions

  • The Remote Desktop app is already installed on all Bowdoin owned user's computers and will be in the Applications folder as "Microsoft Remote Desktop"
  • On personal computers download the "Microsoft Remote Desktop App" from "Self Service" (for faculty and staff) or the Mac App Store.
    • An article with directions on installing and using Self Service can be under the "Related Articles" section on this page. 
  • Open the Microsoft Remote Desktop App you just installed. 
  • Click on the Workspaces tab in the top right. 
  • Click the plus (+) icon at the top and choose "Add Workspace".
  • Enter your Bowdoin Email address and click Add
  • Login with your Bowdoin credentials when prompted.
  • All Workspaces/Virtual Desktops you have access to will show up.
    • Some staff may have access to more than one virtual desktop based on their job role.
    • Each workspace will be easily identifiable by name.
    • If you're looking for the Lab Desktop its located under the Lab 2024 section
  • Click on the one you want to connect to and enter your Bowdoin credentials when prompted.
  • You will be logged in and see the Desktop. 

Windows First Time Setup Instructions

  • On most Windows computers, Microsoft Remote Desktop is already installed. Open Search from the Start Menu to look for it. If it isn't found, contact the Service Desk for assistance.
  • Open the Microsoft Remote Desktop App
  • Click Subscribe.
  • Sign in with your Bowdoin credentials.
  • When prompted un-check "Allow my organization to manage my device" and click OK.
  • Click Done.
  • All Workspaces/Virtual Desktops you have access to will show up.
    • Some staff may have access to more than one virtual desktop based on their job role.
    • Each workspace will be easily identifiable by name.
    • If you're looking for the Lab Desktop its located under the Lab 2024 section
  • Click on the one you want to connect to and enter your Bowdoin credentials when prompted. 
  • You will be logged in and see the Desktop. 

Web Connection Instructions

  • Open Firefox, Chrome or Edge and navigate to https://rdweb.wvd.microsoft.com/arm/webclient/index.html
  • Log in with your Bowdoin credentials when prompted.
  • All Workspaces/Virtual Desktops you have access to will show up.
    • Some staff may have access to more than one virtual desktop based on their job role.
    • Each workspace will be easily identifiable by name.
    • If you're looking for the Lab Desktop its located under the Lab 2024 section
  • Click on the one you want to connect to and enter your Bowdoin credentials when prompted. 
  • You will be logged in and see the Desktop. 

 

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