Virtual Desktop FAQ

How do I save files on the Virtual Desktop?

Each time you log in, a new virtual computer is built for you. Save files to your Network Storage or a USB drive (Windows only) to keep them for next time. It is important to note that anything you save to the Virtual Desktop itself will not be preserved. Virtual Desktop locations that won't be saved:

Will be saved:

Why not store data locally on the virtual desktop?

The best practice is to redirect user data to networked based file storage. A key benefit to virtual desktop is the ability to update the base image easily and allow the system to distribute those changes to an entirely new desktop. Therefore, if you separate the desktop from the data, you can update the desktop more easily.

If I store my data on the shared drive can I retrieve it outside of the virtual desktop?

You can use an SFTP client to connect to the network storage to retrieve or upload user data.

SFTP instructions for UW-Platteville can be found here.

Does the Virtual Desktop have USB Support?

USB drives can be connected on Windows VMware View Client: Plug in the USB drive to your real computer. Click the Connect USB Device button at the top of the Virtual Desktop. Select the drive you want to connect and it will be available on the Virtual Desktop.

Can I personalize a Virtual Desktop?

Any changes you make are not saved. Each time you log in, a new virtual computer is built for you.

What happens when I log off the Virtual Desktop?

When you log off of a Virtual Desktop, it is not saved. Each time you log in, a new virtual computer is built for you. In other words, think of the virtual desktop as disposable.

What sort of Firewall settings should I be aware of?

The following ports need to be open for connection to the UW-Platteville VMWare View servers:

UDP and TCP port 4172, as well as port 80 and 443 for http and https

IP Ranges: 137.104.133.0/24 and 137.104.140.0/22

Can I run the Virtual Desktop on my Mac, iPad, or Android tablet?

Absolutely! The Mac version can be found at https://view.ion.uwplatt.edu/. The iPad version is available in the App Store. A number of Android clients can be found on the VMware website.