Access Cloud Desktop from macOS

Connect to Cloud Desktop on macOS 11 or Later

This step-by-step guide is designed for users with some technical abilities to connect to Azure Virtual Desktop using the Remote Desktop client from the Mac App Store on macOS 11 or later. Azure Virtual Desktop is the foundation for Cloud Desktop, a powerful tool that enables businesses to access a virtual desktop environment from anywhere, using the robustness of cloud technology.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure you have the following:

  1. Permission from your workplace: You'll need permission (usually from your HR department) before you can connect to the Cloud Desktop.

  2. A Mac running macOS 11 or later: Ensure your Mac is updated to the latest operating system version available.

  3. A Microsoft account: If you can sign in to your work email using Outlook on the Web, you have a Microsoft account.

  4. Remote Desktop client: Download and install the Remote Desktop client from the Mac App Store if you haven't already.

Step 1: Launch Remote Desktop

  1. Open the "Finder" on your Mac.

  2. Navigate to the "Applications" folder.

  3. Locate and open the "Remote Desktop" application.

Step 2: Add a Remote Desktop Connection

  1. Once the Remote Desktop client is open, click the "Workspaces" tab at the top of the application.

  1. Select Add Workspace, enter your work email, and Add.

  1. If the Workspace is not found, use the following URL instead of an email: https://rdweb.wvd.microsoft.com

Step 3: Sign In with Your Microsoft Account

  1. In the "Sign in" window, enter your Microsoft account credentials (email address and password).

  2. Complete the Multi-Factor Authentication when required

Step 4: Connect to Azure Virtual Desktop

  1. Back in the main Remote Desktop window, you should now see your Azure Virtual Desktop connection listed.

  2. Double click on the connection you just created to connect to it.

  3. Wait for the initialization sequence to complete. By default, Cloud Desktops are shut down when not in use, so it may take a minute to connect on your first connection.

  4. After successful authentication, the Remote Desktop client will connect to your Azure Virtual Desktop, and you'll be presented with a Windows desktop environment on your Mac.

Step 5: Using Azure Virtual Desktop

Congratulations! You are now connected to your Azure Virtual Desktop. You can use it just like a regular Windows desktop. You can run Windows applications, access files, and perform your tasks as needed.

Disconnecting and Reconnecting

To disconnect from your Azure Virtual Desktop session, click the "X" button on the Remote Desktop client's toolbar. To reconnect later, simply open the Remote Desktop client again, and select your connection.

Conclusion

That's it! You've successfully connected to Azure Virtual Desktop on your macOS 11 or later using the Remote Desktop client. Enjoy the flexibility of accessing a Windows desktop environment from your Mac, and get your work done efficiently. If you encounter any issues or have questions, don't hesitate to reach out to your IT support team for assistance.

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