Remote Desktop

We use RDP (remote desktop protocol) for remote desktop access.

Our RDP setup has a “two-step” login:

  1. Log in with a system-wide password to access the login screen, and

  2. Log in with your individual user credentials.

Below are instructions to install and configure the Windows App RDP client for Windows and Mac.

If you use Linux, please email support-neuro@berkeley.edu for instructions.

Install Windows App

If you’re using MacOS, download the App from the Mac App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/windows-app/id1295203466?mt=12

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Configure Windows App

macOS

  1. Download the axon configuration file and soma configuration file.

  2. Open the Windows App.

  3. Repeat the following instructions for both configuration files (downloaded in step #1):

    • Navigate to the Windows App menu bar (at the top of the screen).

    • Click on the Connections menu option to ‘Import from RDP file…’.

    • Select the downloaded .rdp file.

    • Click ‘Import’ in the bottom right.

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  4. Open the Windows App.

  5. Click ‘Add a remote PC’.

  6. Enter the server name: axon.neuro.berkeley.edu or soma.neuro.berkeley.edu

  7. Click on the Saved Device named axon.neuro.berkeley.edu or soma.neuro.berkeley.edu.

    A new window will open where you can enter the ‘neurocluster’ system password, which is saved in your home directory: $HOME/newuser

Microsoft OS

  1. Download the axon configuration file for axon or soma configuration file for soma.

  2. Create a shortcut on your desktop with the Target:

    C:\Windows\System32\mstsc.exe "C:\path\to\config\file"

    Here is an example:

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  3. Double-click on the shortcut, and enter the ‘neurocluster’ system password, which is saved in your home directory: $HOME/newuser.

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Using Windows App

After authentication, a login screen will appear where you can type your individual username and password.

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Gnome Window Manager

After successful login, a GNOME window manager will appear. The GNOME window manager has a minimalist approach, prioritizing search and multiple workspaces.

  • To open an application, use the Super (Windows) key and type a few letters of the app.

    For example, to open a terminal window, press the Windows key, type ‘term’ and hit return.

  • To cycle between applications, use Alt-Tab.

  • To cycle between workspaces, use Ctrl + Alt + Left/Right Arrow Keys.

Note

To cycle between applications on your local computer, move the mouse out of the Windows App screen, and use Alt-Tab.

Persistent sessions

By default, your session will continue running in the background. You may restore your session on a different computer.

To logout, click on the power icon in the upper right corner, and choose ‘Log out’.

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