Remote Desktop Gateway (Windows) - Connect to On-Campus Computer via RDP
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 (E-ID and password)
- Microsoft Authenticator app configured for SIUE MFA
- Knowledge of your target computer's name
- Approved Remote Access request in SAR. See Remote Access - How to Request VPN or Remote Desktop at SIUE for the process.
Configure Remote Desktop Connection
Step 1: Open Remote Desktop Connection
Launch the Remote Desktop Connection application on your Windows computer.

Step 2: Expand Configuration Options
Click the Show Options button to display all available configuration settings.

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 E-ID is "jsmith", enter jsmith.desktop.siue.edu

Step 4: Configure Gateway Settings
- Click the Advanced tab
- Under the "Connect from anywhere" section, click the Settings... button

Step 5: Set Gateway Server
- Select "Use these RD Gateway server settings:"
- In the "Server name" field, enter:
desktop-siuecougars.msappproxy.net - Click OK to save the gateway settings

Connect to Remote Computer
Step 6: Initiate Connection
Click the Connect button to begin the connection process.

Step 7: Enter Credentials
When prompted, enter your SIUE credentials:
- Username: Your SIUE eID
- Password: Your SIUE password

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.


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:
- Call: (618) 650-5500
- Email: help@siue.edu
- Visit: Lovejoy Library Room 0005 during regular business hours.
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!
