You can install and set up Microsoft Remote Desktop from your Windows workstation computer to a personal Mac.
*Steps 1 and 2 require access to your Windows work computer
Step 1: Enable Remote Desktop on Your University Device
If you already have your computer configured to receive remote desktop protocol connections: e.g., you connect remotely already through a virtual private network (VPN connection), you can skip steps 1 and 2 and proceed to step 3.
1. Windows 7 –
a) Right click on the Computer option from the Start menu.
b) Left-click on Properties. The screen will display basic information about your computer.
Windows 10 –
a) Right Click on the Start Button and select System from the Menu
2. Left-click on Remote Settings from the left-hand side of the screen.
- The User Account Control pop-up window will be displayed.
- Click Yes to allow the program, System Remote Settings, to make changes to your computer. The System Properties window will open on the Remote
- NOTE: If you see the message “You must enable the Window Firewall exception for Remote Desktop” in the dialogue box, click on the provided link. The page that pops up will give you additional instructions on how to change settings for Remote Desktop Connection so that it works.
- Windows 7 – Verify that the third radio button is selected. If it is not, select it.
- Windows 10 – Verify that the second radio button is selected, as well as the checkbox underneath the second radio button.
- Click OK.
Windows 7 –
Windows 10 –
Step 2: Note Your Computer Name
After completing the above steps, you will be returned to the Properties (basic information about your computer) window.
- Write down the information listed in the Full computer name This information is needed when attempting to connect to your University computer from your remote PC.
Step 3: Installing Microsoft Remote Desktop
Compatibility: Requires OS X 10.6.8 or later
Visit https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/microsoft-remote-desktop/id715768417# on your Mac to download and install. This will require an Apple ID password.
Step 4: Configuring UConn’s Remote Desktop Gateway
1. Open Microsoft Remote Desktop
2. Click Preferences
3. Select the Gateway tab. Click the plus sign “+” in the lower left hand corner of the screen.
4. Enter the following information in the provided fields. You will use your NetID credentials as your username and password.
5. Close the Preferences window
Step 5: Configuring a Remote Desktop Connection
1. Open Microsoft Remote Desktop
2. Click New
3. Enter the following information in the provided fields. Again, you will be using your NetID credentials.
4. Close the Edit Remote Desktop window.
5. Double-click Work PC under My Desktops
6. Click Continue on the Verify Certificate window.
7. You should now be connected to the specific window.