Information Technology Services University of Arkansas
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VLab

VLab (vlab.uark.edu) provides a virtual Windows 7 desktop with the latest versions of General Access Computing Lab software that can be accessed by students in real time from any computer. VLab is accessible both on and off campus and available to students 24/7. Non-student users will receive the error message, "There are no resources currently available for this user."

Connecting to VLab

Important: Before logging into VLab the first time, a Citrix plugin must be installed. Select the appropriate operating system at vlab.uark.edu and follow the prompts. After the plugin is installed, restart your browser and log in at vlab.uark.edu.

When connecting to VLab, a pop up window titled "Client File Security" will appear. Select from the following options:

  • Block access. Drives on your local desktop will NOT be available in the VLab environment.

  • Allow reading only. Drives on your local desktop will be available in the VLab environment and you will have read access to data on those drives.

  • Permit all access. Drives on your local desktop will be available in the VLab environment and you will have read/write access to data on those drives.

On Campus

While using a wireless connection on campus to access VLab, connect to UA Secure rather than UA Wireless. Trying to use VLab while connected to UA Wireless will result in the error message "Unable to connect to the desktop or the connection to the server was broken during its login attempt."

Off Campus

The configuration of off-campus networks can affect users' abilities to connect to VLab. Performance will vary depending on your system and Internet connection.

To optimize off-campus access to VLab, you may need to adjust your settings. Choose Session Settings under the Preferences tab and select broadband, fast modems, slower modems, or wireless, depending on your Internet connection.

Tips and Shortcuts

  • Switch between your local desktop and VLab full screen mode by pressing Shift+F2.

  • Save your files to MyDocs via the shortcut on the desktop or to a local drive.

Troubleshooting

  • If the error message "Unable to launch your application. Contact help desk ... The Citrix XenApp server you have selected is not accepting connections" appears, VLab is probably undergoing routine server maintenance. Try again later.

  • If the error message "Unable to connect to the desktop or the connection to the server was broken during its login attempt" appears, reconnect to the university wireless network using UA Secure rather than UA Wireless.

Last Reviewed:

Comments

02/24/2011
8:07 am

In the event of disconnection (such as network or computer crash) data will be lost. It is imperative to save data often and to an external source.

02/24/2011
9:29 am

If your Vlab session is terminated unexpectedly (loss of network/browser crash) and you attempt to reconnect the following error message may be returned 'Your computer could not connect to the desktop. This problem may only be temporary. Try reconnecting and, if the problem persists, contact your system administrator.' Wait for five minutes or so and try again.