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Get access to a virtual Windows 10 desktop using the Virtual Desktop Service (VDS).
The virtual desktop has the same look and feel as a managed University PC, and you can access your filestore and commonly used software.
Virtual Desktop Service ยป (Setup required)
Eligibility
Available to all staff & students.
Duo two-factor authentication is required to log in.
The Virtual Desktop Service (VDS) gives you secure access to a virtual Windows 10 desktop.
You can connect to the VDS from most devices, including:
Available desktop & software
When you connect, you will have access to UniDesktop or StudentDesktop (students only).
UniDesktop includes software available on classroom PCs and office PCs.
Software available on UniDesktop includes:
- SPSS
- EndNote
- Microsoft Office
- Chrome
For the best experience in terms of speed and functionality, we recommend downloading and installing the Parallels client software, and then logging in to workspace.york.ac.uk from your web browser.
Ways to connect | Notes |
---|---|
From a web browser on your computer |
You'll need to install an app and do a quick setup before you use it for the first time. |
From Chrome |
If you're using Chrome on any device, you can install the Parallels client extension. Visit the Chrome Web Store, and select Add to Chrome. |
HTML5 |
Launch the Virtual Windows 10 desktop within your web browser (no software required). |
On request, we can use the VDS to give you access to a specific piece of software without having to use the full Windows desktop.
For example, this might be useful for someone who needs to run an older version of MS Word as well as the current version. Running it as a seamless application on the VDS will avoid any conflicts normally associated with running multiple versions of software on one machine.
Contact the Library and IT Help Desk with your requirements.
Installing the client
- Installing the Parallels VDS client: Windows
- Installing the Parallels VDS client: IOS
- Installing the Parallels VDS client: Linux
- Installing the Parallels VDS client: Android
- Installing the Parallels VDS client: Mac
- Installing the Parallels VDS client: Chromebook
- Installing the Workspace VDS Parallels Client: Managed PC
To log in to the VDS, you will first need to make sure that you have registered for Duo two-factor authentication. This provides an extra layer of security.
Once you are registered for Duo, you can log in to the VDS by following these steps:
1. Go to https://workspace.york.ac.uk, enter your University username and password and click Login
2. A pop-up window will appear like the one below:
3. In the 'OTP' field:
You will then be redirected to your usual list of virtual desktop options.
Library & IT Help Desk
If you're having problems using the Virtual Desktop Service, get in touch with the Library and IT Help Desk.
Service status | Live and supported service. |
---|---|
Hours of service | 24/7 |
Service support | For help and support with this service, contact the Library and IT Help Desk. |
Hours of support | Help from the Library & IT Help Desk is available 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. |
Target availability |
General IT Services targets: |
Review cycle | Every three years |
Policies | York local acceptable use policy |
Our performance |
Our service standards have been produced in consultation with our customers, and monitor the quality, timeliness and access to facilities and services: |
Complaints procedure |
If you wish to give us general feedback on this service, please see our Feedback page for ways to get in touch. If you wish to make a complaint, please see our complaints procedure. |
Certain software is unavailable on the VDI images available to students
Below is a list of software available on both the student and staff desktops.