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Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)

Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)

Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), formerly named Windows Virtual Desktop (WVD), is a Microsoft Azure service that allows users to access virtual desktops and applications over the internet. AVD allows users to access software and University resources virtually that cannot be accessed with their own computer or from outside of the WVU network.

Employees with permission to use AVD can access the virtual desktop environment by logging into virtualapps.wvu.edu, or they can install the Windows App for a more feature-rich experience. Follow the instructions below to log in and troubleshoot any issues you may have with AVD.

Request AVD access

Submit a request using the ITS Azure Virtual Desktop Requests page.

Log into AVD

  1. Go to virtualapps.wvu.edu.

  2. Enter your WVU Login username followed by your email domain (username@mail.wvu.edu or username@hsc.wvu.edu) then click Next.  

  3. Enter your WVU Login password and click Sign In.

  4. You will see icons for all of the virtual desktops and applications you have access to. Double-click the name of the desktop/application you want to open.

  5. You will be asked if you wish to allow access to local resources. Click Allow or Cancel to continue.

    • Clipboard allows you to use copy/paste functionality.

    • Printer allows you to print to your local printer (both are checked by default.) 

  6. You will be asked to log in again. Enter your WVU Login username and password, then click Continue.

  7. You now have access to your virtual desktop or application. 
    Note: Some apps may behave as if they are opening for the first time.

AVD functionality

  • Click All Resources to see all of your available labs. Users can open multiple virtual desktops 

  • Double-click any computer icon to open a virtual desktop in a new tab. 

  • Select the unpin button to change the navigation bar to a small tab.

  • Select the full screen button to enter full screen mode.

  • Click your name, then Sign Out to log out of the virtual desktop when finished.

All items saved to the virtual desktop Documents, Pictures, or Desktop folders will be saved to your OneDrive account, and will be available to you in any of the AVD desktops. Instructions for logging into OneDrive are available in the OneDrive for Business article.  

Access AVD using the Windows App

To use the full features of Azure Virtual Desktop, you can install the Windows App to connect to your virtual desktops. The Windows App is available through Software Center, Company Portal (Azure AD managed computers), or Self Service (macOS) on ITS-supported computers. If you do not have an ITS-supported computer, view Microsoft’s Get Started with Windows App guide for installation instructions.

If you are prompted to sign into the Windows App, enter your WVU Login username followed by your domain (e.g., username@mail.wvu.edu or username@hsc.wvu.edu). You will be redirected to a WVU Login page to enter your Login credentials.

The AVD client uses all displays for virtual desktops by default, but you can configure your individual display settings.

Troubleshooting

Simultaneous access to AVD is limited by license count, so if you are having trouble logging in try again later.

If you have access to AVD and cannot login, or receive an error message that your username/password are not working while trying to log into AVD (using the web client or the Windows App), check your Login account or contact the ITS Service Desk.