How to remote into a Windows computer on-campus from a macOS device at home.
Are you connected to the VPN?
Make sure that you are connected to the Geneseo VPN before attempting this.
If you are not and have never been connected to the VPN before, follow the steps outlined in Virtual Private Networking (VPN) to get connected to the VPN.
Steps for Installing Microsoft Remote Desktop
For a Geneseo-owned Computer
Before you start, you will first need to be added as an Administrator to the remote computer. Please contact the CIT HelpDesk at 585-245-5588 for assistance or submit a request directly. Information needed to complete this request is the name of the computer you are trying to connect to and the account you wish to connect to the computer with.
Open CIT Self Service
Find Microsoft Remote Desktop 10
Check under the category: All under Browse
Click Install.
Another screen should pop up. If the app is not already installing, click Install again.
Once the app finishes, click Close.
Microsoft Remote Desktop should now be installed on your computer.
For a Personal Computer
Open the App Store
Search for "Microsoft Remote Desktop"
Click Get next to Microsoft Remote Desktop 10
Enter the username and password for your Apple ID, if prompted.
Once the app finishes installing, click Open.
Microsoft Remote Desktop should now be installed on your computer.
Steps for Creating a new Remote Desktop
Open Microsoft Remote Desktop.
Click on the Add PC button or the plus sign (+) and select Add PC
For PC Name: enter <computername>.w2k.geneseo.edu
User account: This can be left as is or you can set up a user account so that you do not have to put in your username and password every time.
Click on the drop down next to User account
If you already have a saved login, select it. Otherwise, select Add User Account...
Enter GENESEO\<yourusernamehere> and your Geneseo password.
Enter a Friendly Name, such as the display name of your account, if you want.
Click Add
You can set a Friendly name for the connection so it is easier to find your device if you have more than one. The rest of the settings are option and the desktop should now be configured.
Click Add.
The Remote Desktop should now be created. Double click on it to connect.
Steps for Connecting to a Remote Desktop
Open Microsoft Remote Desktop.
Double click on a saved desktop.
Enter your Geneseo username (GENESEO\<yourusernamehere>) and password if prompted.
Click Trust if prompted.
You should now be connected to your Remote Desktop.
Notes
Don't Know Your Computer Name?
You can ask CIT to look up your computer name. You will need to have a general idea of what computer it is (i.e. the computer's location and/or model) for us to do so effectively.
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Still Need Help?
Ask CIT! Call (585-245-5588), chat, or submit a request and we'll be happy to assist you.