Accessing the Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) Environment

The Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) provides a full campus-connected Windows desktop experience from any location. Once connected, you can access network drives, shared printers, and campus-licensed applications just as if you were on-site.

Overview

The Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) provides a full campus-connected Windows desktop experience from any location. Once connected, you can access network drives, shared printers, and campus-licensed applications just as if you were on-site.

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Prerequisites

• An active EagleID and password

• Stable internet connection (preferably wired or high-speed Wi-Fi)

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Procedure

1. Navigate to the VDI Portal

   • Open a web browser and go to: https://desktop.tamut.edu

2. Choose Your Launch Method

   • VMware Horizon Client (Recommended):
     a. Click on the Install VMware Horizon Client button. (Note: This will redirect you to a site called Omnissa. This is the correct site)
     b. Choose your operating system and click on Go To Downloads.
     c. Click Download Now and follow the on-screen prompts to install the client.
     d. Once installed, open the Horizon Client and enter desktop.tamut.edu as the server address.

   • VMware Horizon HTML Access:
     a. Click on the VMware Horizon HTML Access button to launch the virtual desktop in your browser.

3. Authenticate

   • Enter your EagleID (eagleID@tamut.edu) and password.

4. Select Your Desktop Pool

   • After logging in, you’ll see available desktop pools (e.g., "Windows 11 Desktops," "Windows 11 - Android Studio").

   • Click the pool that matches your role or software requirements.

   • Wait a moment for your virtual desktop session to launch.

5. Use Your Virtual Desktop

   • Your virtual desktop behaves like a campus-based PC:

     • Network drives: Map drives via File Explorer as usual.

     • Printers: Print to campus print queues.

     • Software: Access TAMUT-licensed software and tools.

   • When finished, click Start → Your Name → Log Out, or simply close the Horizon Client or browser tab/window.

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Troubleshooting & Tips

• Unable to Connect:

  • Verify your internet connection.

  • Clear your browser cache or try a different browser (Chrome, Edge, or Firefox).

  • If using HTML Access, try switching to the Horizon Client for improved stability.

• Slow Performance:

  • Use a wired connection if possible.

  • Close unnecessary applications on your local device.

• Session Timeouts:

  • Idle sessions disconnect after 30 minutes.

  • Save your work frequently.

• Session Persistence:

  • VDI environments are non-persistent, meaning your virtual desktop resets at the end of each session.

  • Any files or settings saved locally on the virtual desktop will be permanently deleted once you log off or disconnect.

  • Always save your work to a network drive, cloud storage (e.g., OneDrive), or an external drive if needed.

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Additional Resources

• Portal URL: https://desktop.tamut.edu

• IT Service Desk: itservicedesk@tamut.edu | 903-334-6603

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