How to Remote Desktop to a Cornell Networked PC (From a PC)

How to Remote Desktop to a Cornell Networked PC (From a PC)


Remote Desktop allows you to securely connect to your JCB desktop computer from another PC. This is useful for accessing your work computer from home or when traveling.


Prerequisites


Before you can connect remotely, you'll need:

  • Cisco VPN installed and working — see [How to Install Cisco VPN Client on a PC](https://tdx.cornell.edu/TDClient/48/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=331)
  • Active VPN connection — see [Connecting to the JCB-VPN](https://tdx.cornell.edu/TDClient/48/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=293)
  • Your desktop computer's full name (see Step 1 below)

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Step 1: Find Your Desktop Computer Name


To remote into your desktop, you first need its full network name.


  1. On your JCB desktop computer, open File Explorer from your taskbar
  2. Right-click on "This PC" and select Properties
  3. Look for the "Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings" section
  4. Write down the full computer name — it should look similar to: jcb-d-kdf52.business.cornell.edu

> Tip: The first part of your computer name follows the pattern JCB-D- (for desktop) or JCB-L- (for laptop) followed by your NetID.


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Step 2: Connect to the VPN


Before attempting Remote Desktop, you must be connected to the JCB-VPN.


  1. Open Cisco AnyConnect
  2. Connect to cuvpn.cuvpn.cornell.edu
  3. Enter your NetID and Cornell password
  4. Complete Duo authentication when prompted
  5. Wait for confirmation that you're connected (look for the Cisco VPN icon in your system tray)

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Step 3: Open Remote Desktop Connection


  1. Press the Windows key and type Remote Desktop (or mstsc)
  2. Click Remote Desktop Connection to open the application

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Step 4: Configure Remote Desktop Settings


  1. In the "Computer" field, paste the full computer name you wrote down in Step 1

- Example: jcb-d-kdf52.business.cornell.edu


  1. Click "Show Options" to expand additional settings

  1. In the "User name" field, type your credentials:

- Format: CORNELL\YourNetID

- Example: CORNELL\kdf52


  1. Check the box for "Allow me to save credentials"

  1. (Optional) Configure display and experience settings:

- Display tab: Choose your screen resolution and color depth

- Local Resources tab: Select which local drives/printers to share


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Step 5: Connect


  1. Click "Connect"
  2. Enter your Cornell NetID password when prompted
  3. Check the box for "Remember me"
  4. Click OK

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Step 6: Trust the Certificate


If prompted with a security warning asking about the certificate, click "Yes" to continue connecting.


> ⚠️ Note: This warning appears the first time you connect to a new computer and is normal when connecting remotely.


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Troubleshooting


"The computer can't be found"

  • Verify you're connected to the VPN
  • Double-check the full computer name spelling and format
  • Ensure you copied it correctly from the desktop Properties window

"Access is denied" or authentication fails

  • Verify your username format is CORNELL\YourNetID (not just your NetID)
  • Confirm your Cornell password is correct
  • Check that your account has Remote Desktop permissions (contact IT if unsure)

"Cannot connect to the remote computer"

  • First, verify the desktop computer is powered on
  • Second, ensure you have an active VPN connection
  • Third, try disconnecting and reconnecting to VPN
  • Finally, restart Remote Desktop Connection and try again

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Important Notes


✅ You must be connected to the JCB-VPN before Remote Desktop will work

✅ Your desktop computer must be powered on to connect remotely

✅ Someone cannot be using the desktop at the same time you're remoting into it

✅ Keep your VPN connection active during your Remote Desktop session


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For further assistance, please contact: [itrequests@business.cornell.edu](mailto:itrequests@business.cornell.edu) or call 607-255-6300

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