Virtual Computer Lab Access

Overview

Metro State's Virtual Computer Lab brings our on-campus labs (including all of our academic software) to our students, faculty, and staff on their personal computers and tablets - virtually. It can be accessed through any Windows PC, Mac, iPad, Chromebook, or Android tablet on a high-speed Internet connection.

Instructions: Accessing Virtual Computer Lab

There are two methods of accessing the Virtual Computer Lab, the preferred method via VMware client software install on your personal computer or tablet, or via a web browser.

Article sections:

• Access via VMware Client Install (preferred for best user experience)
• Access via Web Browser

VMware Client Install

For the best user experience, Metro State's Virtual Computer Labs can be accessed after installing the client software on your personal device. Follow the instruction steps below.

1. Browse to https://labs.metrostate.edu
2. Select Install VMware Horizon Client
   
3. From the client download page, select the appropriate download for your device. 
4. Select Go to Downloads, then select Download Now to begin the software download. 
5. Once downloaded, run or install the file. Select Yes when prompted to allow VMware program to make changes to your computer.
6. To agree to terms and conditions, select Agree & Install.
    
7. Once the software completes, a Success screen then a prompt to Restart Now or Restart Later will display.
   
8. Once you have restarted your device, find and select VMware Horizon Client in your program menu. 
9. Click on the Add Server button and enter "labs.metrostate.edu" and select connect.
   
   
10. At the login prompt, use your StarID and Password (*do Not add @minnstate.edu after your StarID). Once authentication completes, you will have a choice of labs and can access them remotely. 

Access Virtual Computer Lab via Web Browser

Metro State's Virtual Computer Labs can be accessed via any modern web browser. Follow the steps below.

1. Browse to https://labs.metrostate.edu
2. Select VMware Horizon HTML Access
   
3. Enter your StarID and Password and select Login (*do Not add @minnstate.edu after your StarID). Once authentication completes, you will have a choice of labs and can access them remotely. 
   
4. Once logged in, you will be presented with lab access options. When you select one of the labs, you will automatically be logged into a computer.

• Note: it may be beneficial to put your browser in "full screen" for a better user experience.