Remote Desktop Connection to an On-Campus Computer

You can remotely connect to your on-campus university Windows computer from an off-campus device using Remote Desktop. This allows you to access files, applications, and resources available on your campus workstation.

 

Before You Begin

  • You must be connected to the UTRGV network through Global Protect VPN.
  • Your campus computer must be powered on.
  • You must have previously logged in to the campus computer (your user profile must already exist on that machine).
  • In some cases, you may need to be added to the Remote Desktop Users group on the campus computer. If you receive an access or permission error when connecting, this access must be granted locally on the computer. Contact the IT Service Desk for assistance.

 

Connect from a Windows Computer (Windows → Windows)

  1. Open the Remote Desktop Connection app by searching for it in the Windows Start menu.
  2. In the Computer field, enter your campus computer name followed by .ad.utrgv.edu (for example: computername.ad.utrgv.edu)
    • You can find the computer name on your campus PC lock screen (press Windows + L to view it).
    • If you experience connection issues, try using the computer’s IP address instead.
  3. (Optional) To access local resources such as your printer or clipboard:
    • Select Show Options, then open the Local Resources tab and choose the devices you want to use.
  4. Click Connect.
  5. Sign in using your UTRGV credentials.
    • If prompted with a different account, select More choices → Use a different account, then enter your UTRGV credentials.

 

Connect from a Mac Computer (Mac → Windows)

  1. Download and install Microsoft Remote Desktop from the Mac App Store.
  2. Open the application and accept any requested permissions.
  3. Select Add PC.
  4. In the PC Name field, enter your campus computer name followed by .ad.utrgv.edu (for example: computername.ad.utrgv.edu)​​​​​​​
    • The computer name is available on your campus PC lock screen (Windows + L).
  5. (Optional) Under Devices and Audio, enable any local resources you want to use (such as clipboard or microphone).
  6. Click Add, then double-click the saved connection to launch it.
  7. Sign in using your UTRGV credentials and accept any certificate prompts.

 

 

Audio and Video Performance Note ​​​​​​​

For the best experience, it is recommended to join meetings or make calls from your local (off-campus) device. This helps avoid audio and video lag during remote sessions.

 

Unsupported Connections

Remote connections to a Mac computer on campus are not available at this time.

 

Need Help?

If you experience issues setting up or using Remote Desktop, contact the IT Service Desk for assistance.

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