Remote Desktop Gateway (Windows) - Connect to On-Campus Computer via RDP

This guide explains how to configure the Windows Remote Desktop Connection application to use the SIUE Remote Desktop Gateway for connecting to on-campus computers via RDP with multi-factor authentication.

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for configuring the Windows Remote Desktop Connection application to use the SIUE Remote Desktop Gateway, enabling secure connections to on-campus computers from off-campus locations.

Important: Before your first connection, ensure your MFA Authentication Method is configured for "App-based authentication - Notification".

Prerequisites

  • Windows computer with Remote Desktop Connection application
  • Valid SIUE credentials (eID and password)
  • Microsoft Authenticator app configured for SIUE MFA
  • Knowledge of your target computer's name or eID

Configure Remote Desktop Connection

Step 1: Open Remote Desktop Connection

Launch the Remote Desktop Connection application on your Windows computer.

Remote Desktop Connection application window

Step 2: Expand Configuration Options

Click the Show Options button to display all available configuration settings.

Remote Desktop Connection with expanded options

Step 3: Enter Computer Information

In the "Computer" field, enter <eid>.desktop.siue.edu

Note: Replace <eid> with your actual SIUE username.

Example: If your eID is "jsmith", enter jsmith.desktop.siue.edu

Computer field filled with desktop.siue.edu format

Step 4: Configure Gateway Settings

  1. Click the Advanced tab
  2. Under the "Connect from anywhere" section, click the Settings... button

Advanced tab with Gateway settings option

Step 5: Set Gateway Server

  1. Select "Use these RD Gateway server settings:"
  2. In the "Server name" field, enter: desktop-siuecougars.msappproxy.net
  3. Click OK to save the gateway settings

RD Gateway server settings dialog with server name filled

Connect to Remote Computer

Step 6: Initiate Connection

Click the Connect button to begin the connection process.

Remote Desktop Connection ready to connect

Step 7: Enter Credentials

When prompted, enter your SIUE credentials:

  • Username: Your SIUE eID
  • Password: Your SIUE password

Username and password login prompt

Step 8: Complete MFA Authentication

After entering your credentials, you will receive a notification in your Microsoft Authenticator app. Approve the login request to complete authentication.

Step 9: Accept Security Certificates

You may be prompted to approve security certificates or trust the remote computer. Click Yes or Connect to proceed.

Trust computer security prompt

Certificate acceptance dialog

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

  • Connection timeout: Verify the computer name format and ensure the target computer is powered on and connected to the SIUE network
  • MFA not received: Check that Microsoft Authenticator is properly configured and connected to the internet
  • Gateway errors: Confirm the gateway server name is correctly entered as desktop-siuecougars.msappproxy.net
  • Authentication failed: Verify your SIUE credentials

Need Additional Support?

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact the ITS Help Desk:

This guide aims to provide useful information, but as technology changes, interfaces or steps might vary. Please use the Comment button to let us know if anything differs from your experience. Your feedback helps us keep this information accurate. Thank you!



Keywords:
rdp, remote desktop, gateway, vpn, windows, desktop connection, remote access, on-campus computer, SIUE gateway, remote desktop connection, RD gateway, msappproxy, desktop.siue.edu, MFA, multi-factor authentication 
Doc ID:
144898
Owned by:
Kade C. in Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Created:
2024-11-22
Updated:
2025-08-20
Sites:
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville