Remote Desktop

Remote Desktop provides the functionality of logging on to your on-campus ILR computer. Utilizing Remote Desktop has some advantages, including having immediate access to your shared folders, network printers, and documents, as well as giving you the ability to work directly from your work computer.

Important Policy for Hourly Employees

Important: Hourly employees must obtain approval for Remote Desktop use from their supervisor and Human Resources. Once approved, please submit a Technical Service Request to ILR Tech Services so the necessary permissions can be granted.

***Please Note: Before you follow the instructions below to connect via Remote Desktop, you must establish a successful VPN connection. If you are not familiar with making a Two-Step VPN connection, please review and follow the VPN connection instructions before proceeding.

Step 1. Connect to the VPN

  1. Connect to the Cornell ILR VPN using the Cisco Secure Client. If you need assistance, please refer to the VPN documentation link provided above.

Step 2. Open Remote Desktop Connection

  1. On the Windows 11 Taskbar, click on the Search icon (magnifying glass) or press the Windows key on your keyboard.
  2. Type Remote Desktop Connection into the search bar and select the Remote Desktop Connection app from the results.

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Step 3. Enter Computer Name & Connect

  1. In the Remote Desktop window, enter the full network name of your on-campus computer in the field to the right of Computer.
  2. Click Connect to proceed.

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Step 4. Log In to The Remote Computer

  1. You will be prompted to log in. You will need to select the login option with your NetID, otherwise, enter your username format as: netid@cornell.edu

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  2. Enter your NetID/email password and click OK.
  3. Your on-campus computer screen will appear. Click OK on any security or acknowledgment prompts, and you will be successfully logged on to your computer.Uploaded Image (Thumbnail)
     

Troubleshooting Connection Errors

If you receive an error message while trying to connect, please verify the following:

  • Internet Connection: Ensure your local device has a strong, stable internet connection.
  • VPN Connection: Verify you are actively connected to the VPN. Click the up arrow (hidden icons tray) near the clock on the bottom right of your taskbar; the Cisco Secure Client icon should indicate an active, secured session.
  • Username: Make sure you are using your full Cornell email address (netid@cornell.edu).
  • Caps Lock: Check your keyboard to ensure Caps Lock isn't accidentally turned on.

Step 5. Disconnect From Your Computer

  1. When you are finished working, locate the blue connection bar at the top of your screen.
  2. Select the X on the connection bar to disconnect from your on-campus computer. Your session will remain active on the host machine, saving your open work.

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Step 6. Disconnect From the VPN

  1. To completely disconnect from the Cornell network, select the up arrow (hidden icons tray) on the bottom right of your Windows 11 desktop.
  2. Click the Cisco Secure Client icon and choose Disconnect.

Additional Information

1) Locating Your Computer Name

  1. While directly at your on-campus computer, click the Search icon on the taskbar or press the Windows key.
  2. On the PC you will be connecting to, Type About your PC into the search box and select it from the results to open the Windows 11 Settings app.
  3. Under the Device specifications section, locate and write down the text next to Device name. This is the computer name you will use to connect.

2) Adjusting Power Settings (Sleep Mode)

ILR has implemented power savings settings by default in accordance with the University's carbon footprint reduction goals. If your computer has entered Sleep Mode, you may have difficulty connecting on the first attempt, but successfully connect on a second attempt a minute later as the machine wakes up. If you need to adjust these settings to ensure a reliable remote access connection, follow the steps below.

Please Note: If you would like assistance adjusting this setting or would like to discuss alternative options, please open a Technical Service Request. We would be happy to help.

  1. On your on-campus computer, click the Search icon on the taskbar, type Power & sleep, and select Power, sleep and battery settings from the menu.
  2. In the Settings window, click on the Screen and sleep option to expand the dropdown menu settings.
  3. Locate the dropdown option for "When plugged in, put my device to sleep after" and change it to Never.

Need Help?
If you experience issues setting up or establishing your Remote Desktop connection, contact ILR Tech Services for assistance.

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