How do I use Remote Desktop on my Mac computer to connect to a campus Windows computer?

If you are off-campus, and you need to connect to an on-campus computer, you can use the Windows App (previously Remote Desktop). (Note: This is normally locked down, so these instructions will not work for you unless you have talked specifically with someone in IT Tech Support to make sure you have access).

1. Connect to the VPN. If you have not installed or configured the VPN, you can follow these instructions. 

2. Go to the app store to download the Windows App app.

3. Open Windows App.

Windows App application in App Store

4. When opening the software for the first time, you will be prompted to allow access to the microphone, camera, and network. Select Allow to all prompts

Permissions for Local Network. Microphone, and Camera allowed

Windows App requesting camera permission

Windows App requesting microphone permission

5. Once the Windows App software opens, you will need to add a PC. You can click on the "+" and select Add PC.

Windows App menu with plus sign at the top that has Add PC option

6. Enter the PC name in the format below (Step 1 in the image below). Each computer has its own unique pc name so make sure you know the computer name of the pc you are trying to connect to.  

  • pcname.bucknell.edu
  • bert123-00.bucknell.edu (example)

7. Click the down arrow for the Credentials field (Step 2 in the image below). Select Add Credentials...

Add PC popup with PC Name field to put in Hostname or IP Address and Credentials field with Add Credentials option

7. Enter your user name in the Username field. Please follow the format below.

  • bucknell\username (replace username with your Bucknell username)
  • bucknell\abc123 (example)

8. Enter your Bucknell password and select Add

Add Credentials popup; Username field with bucknell backslash bucknell username; Password field for Bucknell password

9. Once you have entered the PC name and added your credentials, click on Add. 

Add PC popup with required information filled out and a Save button at the bottom right corner

10. You have now successfully added the desktop. To connect to this desktop you can right-click and select Connect or you can double-click on the desktop and it will start connecting automatically. 

Desktop added to the Windows App app 

11. In some cases, you may receive a certificate pop-up box. Click on Show Certificate. Otherwise, you may skip to Step 14.

Certificate popup with Show Certificate at the bottom left corner

12. Select the box for "Always trust "PC name" when connecting to "PC name"

Certificate popup with Show Certificate drop down displayed; Always Trust check box checked off

13. Your mac user name should auto-populate. Enter your mac password (not Bucknell password).

Enter password for Mac computer in password field

14. Once you have connected to the desktop, you will be able to access the software that is on that pc. 

Note: If you receive an error connecting, please check the PC name and your credentials. If you are still unable to connect, please submit a ticket. 

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