Mustang V Labs: Windows to macOS Instructions

Overview

This article explains how to use Mustang V‑Labs to connect from a Windows computer to an SMSU macOS lab computer using Remote Desktop Connection.

Before You Begin

You will need:

  • Your StarID username and password
    • Username format: smsu.edu\YourStarID
      (example: smsu.edu\ab1234cd)
  • A Windows computer
  • Internet access
  • Remote Desktop Connection (built into Windows)

Important

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

Step 1: Open Remote Desktop Connection

  1. In the Windows search box, type Remote Desktop Connection.
  2. Open the application.
  3. Select Show Options.

indows search bar showing ‘Remote Desktop Connection’ being typed and selected from results.

emote Desktop Connection window with basic connection field and ‘Show Options’ button visible.

Step 2: Configure Gateway Settings

  1. Select the Advanced tab.
  2. Click Settings.
  3. Select Use these RD Gateway server settings.
  4. Enter the following:
    • Server name: labconnect.smsu.edu:8443
    • Logon method: Ask for password
    • Bypass RD Gateway server for local addresses: Unchecked
  5. Click OK.

Remote Desktop Connection expanded settings showing tabs including General, Display, Local Resources, and Advanced.

Advanced tab of Remote Desktop Connection with button to configure RD Gateway settings.”

Gateway settings configured with server address ‘labconnect.smsu.edu:8443’ and logon method set to ask for password.

Step 3: Return to General Tab

  • Select the General tab to continue setup.

Remote Desktop Connection window with ‘General’ tab open, showing fields for Computer and User name, and ‘Connect’ button at the bottom.

Step 4: Choose an Available macOS Lab Computer

  1. Open a web browser.
  2. Go to the Mustang V‑Labs computer list: View available Mustang V‑Labs computers
  3. Locate an available Mac computer (Apple icon).
  4. Copy the computer name.

Web browser displaying SMSU Mustang V‑Labs list of available Mac computers with selectable system names.

Step 5: Enter the Computer Name and Connect

  1. Return to the General tab.
  2. Paste the computer name into the Computer field.
  3. Click Connect.

Remote Desktop Connection General tab with selected Mac computer name pasted into the Computer field.

Step 6: Sign In

  1. When prompted, enter:
    • Username: smsu.edu\YourStarID
    • Password: Your StarID password
  2. Click OK.

Login prompt requesting StarID username and password for remote connection.

Step 7: Accept Security Prompts

  • If a security warning appears, click Yes.

Remote Desktop security warning dialog with option to proceed by clicking ‘Yes.

Step 8: Complete Login

  1. Enter your StarID and password again if prompted.
  2. Select the arrow or sign-in option to continue.

Credential entry window prompting for username and password with submit arrow button.

Step 9: Use the Remote macOS Computer

  • You should now be connected to the macOS lab workstation.

Remote desktop window displaying a macOS workstation after successful login.

Step 10: Log Off When Finished

When you are done using Mustang V‑Labs:

  • Save your files to OneDrive or email them to yourself.
  • Log off the remote computer.

Notes

  • Ensure your work is saved before logging off.
  • Logging off properly helps make computers available for other users.
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Mustang V-Labs
For general information on Mustang V-Labs and the applications available.