Remote Desktop

Remote Desktop allows users to login to a Windows based machine remotely. This provides access to everything you would use as if you were directly in front of the console

If you are using Windows XP, then Remote Desktop Connection is included. It can be launched by clicking: Start --> All Programs --> Accessories --> Remote Desktop Connection

If you haven't run Windows Update recently, the client may be one level further down, in the Communications folder.

Most linuxes come with it installed (command name rdesktop, or as part of the distribution that can be optionally installed. If yours doesn't you can download it here

Mac OS X users can download it here. If it has been moved search for "remote desktop mac".

Connecting

• Once you have launched the program, type in the machine you wish to connect to. For example, connecting to the department application servers would be melomel.stat.ohio-state.edu or braggott.stat.ohio-state.edu

• The options tab allows you to customize various options to increase performance or enable features.

• If your connection is slow, before you connect, select the Experience tab and uncheck all the options.

• To use your local drives while connected remotely, select the Local Resources tab and check the Disk Drives box. This will allow you to transfer files between drives on the two machines.

• Click Connect to begin working remotely.

Note: If you are using Vista to connect, you may have to type STAT\your_username in the Username box.

Using

• Have your programs save any temporary files to a folder you create in C:\scratch\.

• Always delete Temporary files once you are done with them. No files should be stored on these machines except temporary files being used in a currently running job.

• Once you start your jobs, run renice.vbs from the desktop to assure sufficient resources are available for other users. Running programs that have not been reniced are subject to cancelation if system performance suffers.

• When you are finished working on the machine, make sure you Log Off.

FAQ's

• Can I copy and paste from my machine to the remote machine?
  Yes, just minimize the connection by moving your mouse to the top of the screen, you can work on both machines at the same time. Copy and Paste works the same here as it does in any other program.

• How do I transfer files between machines?
  Before you launch the connection select the Local Resources tab to allow Disk Drives. This option will give you access to your local disk drives while connected to the remote machine. Just drag and drop your files while connected.

• How do I change my password when connected to the remote desktop?
  In the lower right column of the start menu there is a Windows Security icon. Selecting that will bring up a windows where "Change Password" is the first button in the second row.