Virtual Desktop Service​

If you are working off campus (or away from your staff PC on another campus) you can use the Virtual Desktop Service (VDS) to access University online services such as software and your data. 

Please note: Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) ​is required for all off-campus use of the Virtual Desktop Service (VDS). This will initially apply only to staff members and not students.​

Installing the Virtual Desktop Service (VDS)

To access the VDS you will need internet access and you will need to install a VMware Horizon Client:

Find out how to install the VDS on a PC, laptop or tablet with no VMWare Horizon client available in the app store

Using the VDS 

To open and use the Virtual Desktop Service:

• Open the VMware Horizon client or app:

• Connect to the Connection Server: “desktop.napier.ac.uk”:
• Log in using your University username (staff number) and password:

• When you successfully logon you will see all virtual desktops available to you, select the required desktop. 
• Your virtual desktop will open enabling you to:
• Securely access the University's online services and teaching applications
• Save your work and access the files stored on your networked data areas

Once finished remember to Log off via the Virtual Desktop Start Menu.

VDS Frequently Asked Questions

A range of Virtual Desktop Service (VDS) frequently asked questions can be found on askNapier​.