Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) allows you to log into a virtual desktop at the college with your personal computer or compatible mobile device. It will allow you to use the same desktop you normally log into on a lab computer, classroom podium computer or the desktop at your personal computer. Network drives, Microsoft Office software, and standard computer applications are all available through VDI once logged in.

VDI can be accessed by downloading the VMWare Horizon View client or by using the web-based version. The web version may be a more convenient option for some users but it has limitations, including slower performance than the full client version and the inability to use thumb drives.

The full VDI client (VMWare Horizon) can be downloaded and installed by following these steps:

  1. Inside your web browser, type https://vdesk.ptcollege.edu/ in the address bar. Be sure it is the web browser’s address bar and not an Internet search, as it will not appear in an Internet search.
  2. You will be presented with the VMware Horizon View web page. From this page you can launch the web based version or install the full client. By clicking on “Install VMware Horizon Client”, you will be taken to VMware’s download center for the VMware Horizon Client.
  3. If you are using a Windows computer, you should install the “VMware Horizon Client for Windows” which is the first option in the list. Download and run the installer. You can also choose to install the Apple OSX version if needed. These instructions assume the Windows version. Also watch the dialog boxes during installation Microsoft will try to redirect you to download and install the Windows Store version, which is not recommended.
  4. When the setup program begins it will ask numerous questions. You can click through each of the questions without changing the defaults. An icon will be placed on your desktop and start menu for the Horizon Client.
  5. Double clicking it will launch the client. When it asks for the connection server name type “vdesk.ptcollege.edu”. Don’t include the “” marks. You can now login with your PTC network credentials. You will be presented with your desktop.

You can also find instructions for setting up VDESK on a MAC by clicking InstallingVDIClientonaMac.pdf 1.25 MB_

Note: When you access PTC systems such as the VDI desktop from your personal computer you must still abide by the Computer Use and Electronic Communications policy, as per the PTC Policy Manual which can be found by visiting this link: policymanual.pdf 1.22 MB

Email can be directly accessed from your personal computer of mobile device via https://mail.ptcollege.edu. You do not need to log into VDI to access your email through a web browser.