Using Windows XP Remote Desktop to connect to the ISU Remote Access (RDP) Server

Table of Contents

What is Remote Access RDP Server?

Remote Access RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) Server is used to access the NT terminal server on the ISU campus from remote locations. Using Remote Access RDP Server, students at remote sites can run any program on the ISU computer, generally SPSS and Minitab, by connecting to the terminal server.

Establishing a Terminal Server Account

Before you can access the ISU windows terminal server from home, you will need to have the following:

  1. Access to Internet through your local Internet Service Provider
  2. An account with username and password to access the terminal server. If you do not have an account with username and password, contact your instructor.

If you have any problems with this document or connecting from home, please use one of our OIT Help Desk web forms to report your problem, or call the Help Desk at (812) 237-2910 or (888) 818-5465 Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 8:00 pm for phone support.

Connecting to the ISU Windows Terminal Server

On Windows XP go to Start, then click on All Programs, followed by Accessories and then Communications. Choose the shortcut labeled "Remote Desktop Connection"

You should get a window like the image shown below:

On the "Computer" Line, type blade3.indstate.edu and then click Connect.

You will get a large screen with a Novell username and password box. Please be sure to Uncheck Workstation Only.

Type your Sycamore Login and Password (the MyISU portal information) on the line and click Ok.

When you see the Windows Workstation login box, type your Blade3 username and password on the line, then click the OK button. The username typically matches your Sycamore Login but the password will be different. See the

Establishing a Terminal Server Account for information on how to get an account on this server.

Because you are connected to the server profile once you are connected, you will notice that your icons and the programs are different.
To Access SPSS or other Statistical Software packages, click the Start Button, then All Programs. You will find a Statistical Software folder listed. Beneath that are SAS, Minitab and SPSS for Windows.

Changing Your Password

You will most likely wish to change the initial password assigned to one a bit easier for you to remember. To change your password, you will need to be logged in to the terminal server.

  1. Click on Start, then select "Windows Security." Note: If you are viewing the terminal server with a partial screen, make sure that you are selecting the Start button on the terminal server as opposed to your own computer's Start button.
  2. Click on the "Change Password" button. Fill in the fields to change your old password to a new password.

It is a good idea to change your password from time to time as it is the primary security for your personal terminal server account.

Logging off Remote Desktop

When you are finished with your session, click the Start button and select Logoff. This will return your computer to your normal desktop.

NOTE: If at some point during your session you are disconnected but are not finished with your session, you have 10 minutes to reconnect.