Overview

Remote Desktop Connection (RDC) is a Microsoft technology that allows a local computer to control a remote PC over a network or the Internet. To connect via RDC to your Yale computer, you need to connect to the Virtual Private Network (VPN) first. IT recommends using the computer name rather than the IP address to connect.

When to Use

• You need to access your on-campus Yale computer from home (or any other off-campus location)
• You need to access files only saved locally on your on-campus computer

Determine Your Windows Computer Name

1. Select Start.
2. Type About.
3. Select About your PC.
4. Locate your computer name under Device specifications > Device name.
   • A computer name may be a combination of letters and numbers, for example: MWPC0Z2EOG.
   • Note your computer name.

Use the Full Computer Name for Remote Desktop Connections

The full computer name is your computer name plus the network extension.

For Windows Managed Workstations

• Use yu.yale.edu
• Example: MWPC0Z2EOG.yu.yale.edu

For macOS, Linux, Windows non-Managed Workstations on Central Campus

• Use .stdusr.yale.internal.
• Example: MWPC0Z2EOG.stdusr.yale.internal

For macOS, Linux, Windows non-Managed Workstations on Medical Campus

• Use .med.yale.internal
• Example: MWPC0Z2EOG.med.yale.internal

Connect to Yale VPN

Follow the instructions available in our guide: Setting Up and Connecting to the Yale VPN.

RDC on Windows PC

1. Select the Start button.
2. In the Search field, type Remote Desktop Connection and open it.
3. Type the Full Computer Name (mwxxxx.yu.yale.edu) of the host PC and click on Connect.
4. You will be connected to your Windows computer's logon screen. Log in using your NetID and Password.
5. To end your remote session, select Disconnect from the Power menu.

RDC on a Mac

1. Launch Microsoft App, available in the App Store.
2. Select + New.
3. Type the Full Computer Name (mwxxxxxxx.yu.yale.edu) of the host PC in the PC Name field and select Connect.
4. Select the Red circle to close the Window.
5. Select the profile you just saved and select the Start button.
6. You will be connected to your Windows computer's logon screen. Log in using your NetID and Password.