Virtual Desktop Image (VDI) FAQs
Duo two-factor authentication is required for off-campus access to Virtual Desktops. Learn more about enrolling in Duo.
Who can access VDI?
William & Mary faculty, staff, and students.
How many people can use VDI at the same time?
There is no limit, but people may receive a message to try again later if too many people are logged in at a time. To give the system time to add more desktops automatically, wait about 10 to 15 minutes and try again.
I'm from the Business School/VIMS. Which username do I use to login?
Use your W&M Username (aka campus ID) and password to login.
Seems like it takes a while to connect. Is this normal?
Yes. It takes one to two minutes to connect to VDI. You will be asked to provide your password twice.
Can I print from VDI?
Student VDI (the "Public Computer Lab" and "Business Courses") will automatically set up the release station printers (wmprint on labprint.wm.edu) after login (give it a minute to do this). For other printing, save to your OneDrive and then print from a business or personal device.
VDI does not have the software (or software version) I am looking for. Can I request it be added?
Yes, BUT, we cannot guarantee its compatibility with VDI, and we will require significant lead-time for your request. There are many things that need to be done in order to integrate new software into the VDI desktops, so we require at least 2 months advance notice (but more is always better).
Can I remote desktop from VDI?
Yes, you can. It might get confusing having three desktops open at the same time, but it can be done.
Why can't I save to the C: Drive?
All files are erased from the C: Drive after each VDI session terminates. However, you can set up your OneDrive. Refer to the "OneDrive on Shared (Multiuser) Devices (PAC/POD, Some Conference Rooms)" dropdown at https://www.wm.edu/offices/it/services/microsoftoffice365/webapps/onedrive/ for more information.
I travel abroad lot. Are there any concerns about using VDI in a foreign country?
There are a lot of variables that come in to play while traveling in a foreign country (Internet access, protective firewalls, etc). However, this is dependent on the conditions of the country you are traveling in. W&M does not restrict access to VDI based on country.
Are there time limits to VDI sessions?
Yes, you will automatically be logged-out after 10 hours of an active session. You will be logged out after 20 minutes with an inactive session.
Will I be warned before I get logged-out?
Yes, you will be warned by a pop-up window shortly before you are automatically logged-out.
What happens if my Internet connection drops?
If you login within 15 minutes, your session will be restored. After 15 minutes, you will have to start a new session.
How do I log off?
Select "End Session" from the user icon's drop down menu in the upper right corner. If you are using the newer portal, select the Profile menu item, then "End Session":
...or... 
Questions?
Contact the Technology Support Center (TSC)
757-221-4357 (HELP) | [[support]] | Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
