Scope

RDS provides two methods for interacting with remote sessions. One is the traditional Remote Desktop Session, which we call the 'full desktop experience', and the other is a Remote App.
See below for a detailed explanation of both options.

Remote Apps

What is a Remote App?

A Remote App makes programs accessed remotely through Remote Desktop Services appear as if they are running on your local computer. Rather than being presented with a desktop environment on a Remote Desktop server, the Remote App programme integrates with your local computer's desktop.

Matlab running as a remote app on macOS

Matlab running as a remote app on macOS

Use cases

If you prefer to work with a seamless app rather than logging in to a desktop and starting the app from there, RemoteApp is the solution. Some apps, such as Matlab, run on dedicated systems that can only be accessed via RemoteApp.

To get a new RemoteApp published

If you would like a specific program to be published as a RemoteApp, please contact your local IT support group.

Accessing local drives

You can access the local 'home directory' on your computer when using a RemoteApp.

macOS

In the sidebar on the left, you will see 'Home' followed by the name of your local computer. This lists all the folders in your Mac's home directory. Simply select the document you would like to open.
Please note that opening large files or running a data analysis via this method is not recommended due to reliability and performance issues.

Windows

In the left-hand sidebar, you will see a 'Z' drive followed by the name of your local computer. This lists all the folders in your local Windows home directory. Simply select the document you would like to open.

Please note that opening large files or running a data analysis via this method is not recommended due to reliability and performance issues.

Disconnecting and Reconnecting

macOS

In the Remote Desktop Client Connection, right-click on the remote application or collection that you are connected to and select 'Disconnect'. To reconnect, simply open the remote app or collection shortcut again.

Windows

Right-click on the Computer icon in the bottom right-hand corner of your screen.

Select 'Disconnect from RDS Applications' if you want to reconnect to the same applications later.

If you reopen the same application from your Remote App feed or Start Menu later, it will reconnect you.

Full desktop experience

What is a full desktop experience?

It's when you log in to a server and access a complete desktop environment.

Use cases

Use this option if you need a full desktop or if the programme you need is not available as a remote app. Most people prefer to work this way.

How to to access

Start any connection in your RDS feed that has a remote desktop icon (rather than an app icon).

Example: a shortcut to scientific application servers on macOS.

Example: a shortcut to scientific application servers on Windows.