What is the UConn Remote Desktop Gateway?

Owned by Herman Casaol
Last updated: Aug 08, 2023 by Ashley Mattingly
2 min read

Remote Desktop Gateway (RDG) provides access to the Remote Desktop Service (RDS) and enables access to campus resources from off-campus or to restricted systems on campus. All RDS clients should be configured to use RDG to ensure proper access to University resources. 

To comply with security, policy, and industry requirements, RDG is protected with Duo 2 Factor Authentication (2FA). Users accessing RDG will receive a push notification via the Duo App or a phone call after entering their username and password and pressing connect on their RDS client.  

Duo works differently on RDG:

  • You will not see a screen from Duo security that asks you to choose an authentication method. Instead, it will only interact with you via your personal device.

  • Because there is no screen, you cannot enter a code. You have to respond by accepting a push notification from the Duo mobile app or receiving a phone call.

If you do not have a mobile phone or a landline at the location where you work added to the UConn 2FA service, you need to make these updates.

Before you start using RDS, you should configure a remote desktop client to use the RDG. Once configured, your client will use the RDG when necessary. If you are able to connect to your remote system without a Duo prompt, don't be concerned. This means other UConn security pathways were used to protect your session.

Update from 1/12/2021: CLAS users and others now have to authenticate through the Remote Desktop Gateway and use Duo, so they may get prompted a second time to put in their NetID and password. The second time, the NetID needs to be entered as "uconn\NetID," and the user must accept the Duo push or phone call.

For UCHC individuals: Those who do not have a Duo account in Storrs will need to use VPN to connect to a Storrs PC, or use Anyware to connect to a remote PC on the UConn Domain (Storrs Network).

For any questions or concerns, please contact the UConn Technology Support Center.

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