For students, the centerpiece of this remote ecosystem is the VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) . Accessible via vdi.kuleuven.be
For KU Leuven employees and staff, the approach is different and is designed to replicate the office environment securely.
The university operates under strict cybersecurity guidelines to safeguard academic data. Depending on your role—student or employee—and the device you are using, your remote desktop workflow will differ: User Group Primary Access Method Mandatory Prequisites Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) & Citrix Workspace Campusroam or SSL VPN + Central Login Staff (Managed Laptop) Ivanti Secure Access Client (VPN) + Direct RDP A-Zone connection + KU Leuven Authenticator Staff (Private Device) B-Zone VPN Web Portal / Remote Desktop Server Multifactor Authentication (MFA) 2. Students: Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)
VDI is the most common way for students to access software like SPSS, MATLAB, or Microsoft Office without installing them locally. Go to vdi.kuleuven.be.
Download "Microsoft Remote Desktop" from the App Store.
Accessing standard software (SPSS, MATLAB, Office), accessing network drives (H: and I: drives), and general administrative work. remote desktop ku leuven
Your account must be active and your password up to date.
Departments like Computer Science use SSH jump hosts (e.g., ssh.cs.kuleuven.be ) for secure command-line access to internal machines, often requiring SSH certificates rather than just passwords for increased security.
To enhance network security, KU Leuven requires an additional MFA step for all VPN connections from off-campus locations. Since 6 November 2023, you must use the to complete the authentication process when using the Ivanti Secure Access Client (formerly Pulse Secure).
A web-based tool to browse and download your network files via a browser. Access it at wfs.ghum.kuleuven.be Nextcloud: Some departments (like
This guide covers everything you need to know about – from the Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) and Virtual Private Networks (VPN) to SSH connections and specialised departmental solutions. For students, the centerpiece of this remote ecosystem
Students often need access to specialized lab software or shared drives. The process generally involves connecting to the VPN first.
If the connection fails, ensure your VPN is active and you have a stable internet connection.
Reconnecting to your session...
Connection failed.
If you are outside the university network, you will likely need to use the VPN (Virtual Private Network) to ensure a secure connection. Download "Microsoft Remote Desktop" from the App Store
: Inactivity can lead to disconnected sessions, which may result in unsaved data if you aren't careful. 🛠️ User Experience Breakdown 🚀 Performance
Remote Desktop KU Leuven is a service that enables users to connect to their university computer or virtual desktop from a remote location, using a secure and encrypted connection. This service is designed to provide flexible access to university resources, allowing users to work or study from anywhere, without being physically present on campus. With Remote Desktop KU Leuven, users can access their applications, files, and data, just as they would if they were sitting in front of their university computer.
ssh -J login@ssh.cs.kuleuven.be account@machine.cs.kuleuven.be . SET-IT Service Desk
: For the best experience, it is recommended to install the Citrix Workspace App (formerly Citrix Receiver).
