Mustang V‑Labs: Chromebook to Windows Instructions

Overview

This article explains how to use Mustang V‑Labs to connect from a Chromebook to a Windows lab computer at Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) using Microsoft Remote Desktop.

Before You Begin

You will need:

• Your StarID username and password
  • Username format: smsu.edu\YourStarID
    (example: smsu.edu\ab1234cd)
• A Chromebook with access to the Google Play Store
• The Microsoft Remote Desktop app installed

Important

• Always save your work to OneDrive or email it to yourself.
• Files saved directly on lab computers are automatically deleted.
• Always log off the remote computer when you are finished.

Step 1: Install Microsoft Remote Desktop (New Users Only)

1. Open the Google Play Store on your Chromebook.
2. Search for Microsoft Remote Desktop.
3. Download and install the app.

Returning users can skip this step and start with Step 2.

Step 2: Open Microsoft Remote Desktop and Add a PC

1. Open the Microsoft Remote Desktop app.
2. Select the plus (+) button in the top‑right corner.
3. Choose Add PC.

Step 3: Enter PC Connection Settings

Complete the fields exactly as shown below:

• PC name: fk25st3.smsu.edu
• User account: smsu.edu\YourStarID
  (example: smsu.edu\ab1234cd)
• Admin mode: Enabled
• Gateway: smsu.edu:8443
• Don’t use for local addresses: Off
• Select Save.

Step 4: Choose a Windows Lab Computer

1. Open a web browser on your Chromebook.
2. Go to the SMSU Mustang V‑Labs computer list: View available Mustang V‑Labs computers
3. Locate an available computer.
4. Select Connect next to the computer you want to use.

Step 5: Download and Open the Connection File

1. When you select Connect, a connection file downloads to your device.
2. The file may open as a text file by default.
3. Open your Downloads folder.
4. Open the file using the Microsoft Remote Desktop app.

Step 6: Adjust Display Settings (Recommended)

• Switch to Tablet Mode within the Remote Desktop app for a larger screen.
• The app opens in Phone Mode by default, which may be harder to use on a Chromebook.

Step 7: Sign In to the Remote Computer

1. Enter your StarID username and password when prompted.
2. Select Connect.
3. Accept the security certificate if prompted.

Step 8: Log Off When Finished

When you are done using Mustang V‑Labs:

1. Save your files to OneDrive or email them to yourself.
2. Log off the remote Windows computer.

Notes for Returning Users

• If Microsoft Remote Desktop is already installed, start at Step 2.
• Always verify that your files are saved before logging off.