If the connection fails, ensure your VPN is active and you have a stable internet connection.
Libraries and learning centers provide this service for academic work. Getting Started: How to Connect to VDI
: Many students use MobaXterm on Windows to manage these sessions easily. Quick Comparison: Which should you use? Student RDS VDI (Library) SSH / Jump Host User Type General Students General Students / Library Users CS / Specialized Depts Best Device Windows PC Any (Mac, Tablet, Laptop) Any with Terminal Key Software Office, Matlab, Eviews Scientific Software & Apps Command-line tools / Linux VPN Required? Yes (for off-campus) Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues
KU Leuven's Remote Desktop services is a critical capability for students and staff to reach specialized software, departmental files, and internal network resources from home. This report breaks down the technical requirements, connection methods, and security protocols based on the university's current IT standards. 1. Connection Prerequisites
Whether you're a student needing access to specialized software, a faculty member continuing your research from home, or an employee working remotely, KU Leuven provides a comprehensive suite of tools to connect you to your digital workspace. This guide explains all the remote desktop options available, covering the Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) for students, teleworking solutions for staff, and advanced access methods for the Department of Computer Science.
Approve the multi-factor authentication prompt on your mobile device.
Some public Wi-Fi networks (e.g., in hotels or cafes) block the specific network ports required by VPNs or remote desktops. If possible, test your connection using a mobile hotspot to isolate the issue. Best Practices for Data Security
KU Leuven takes the security and protection of user data seriously. The Remote Desktop service uses secure and encrypted connections to protect user data, and access is only granted to authorized users. KU Leuven also complies with relevant data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Requires the Citrix Workspace app (formerly Citrix Receiver) installed on your device. 2. Student Remote Desktop Server (RDS)
In the landscape of modern higher education, the physical boundaries of the university campus are increasingly being dissolved by digital infrastructure. Nowhere is this more evident than at KU Leuven, Belgium’s largest and highest-ranked university. Among the suite of digital tools provided to students and staff, the Remote Desktop service stands out as a critical piece of architecture. By allowing users to access university computing resources from anywhere in the world, KU Leuven’s Remote Desktop does not merely offer convenience; it fundamentally democratizes access to high-level academic tools and reinforces the university's commitment to flexible, uninterrupted learning.