Using Remote Desktop

Faculty, staff, and students can access remote computers (e.g., desktops at work that you do not have physical access to) from their local device (e.g., a computer at home that you are using) using Remote Desktop technology.

Most UConn computing resources do not require a remote desktop connection. If you are working off-campus and have a university-issued computer, you most likely do not need Remote Desktop. There are only a few computing resources that require it.

Important reminders

The computer that you want to connect to remotely:

Must remain on.
Must remain connected to the internet via Ethernet (hard-wired).
Cannot go into hibernation or sleep mode.

If you have been able to connect to a computer remotely, but have lost access, the computer is probably powered off or is offline. ITS is unable to go to your on-campus office to turn it on for you.

Limitations

If you are using a personal computer, this service is still possible and you may follow these guides as they are written. However, ITS cannot offer direct support for personal machines in the event of problems that may arise. Please also be aware of security recommendations and best practices for using a personal device for work.
The Cisco AnyConnect VPN is not needed for Remote Desktop. Simply follow the guides below, paying specific attention to setting up the remote gateway on your local machine.
You cannot remotely connect to a computer running macOS or Linux.
Only the device admin can connect by default. Other users will need to be added manually.

Get started

First, you need to set up your remote (on-campus) computer to allow incoming remote desktop connection requests. You can do so here: Enable Incoming Remote Desktop Connections
Then, you can set up your local (off-campus) computer to connect to your remote desktop: Connecting to a Remote Computer