How to Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) from a Mac to PC Computer


These are the instructions for how to RDP from a MacOS computer to a PC. Mac to Mac is not possible with this client. It is for all current MacOS supported by the USGS.

Make sure you are using the latest version of the MS Remote Desktop App
Click + at the top of the Microsoft Remote Desktop Window and select Desktop

RDP Window

Add the PC name or IP Address, Then click the Devices & Audio Tab and Select Smart Cards under Redirect. Leave everything else as default.

PC Name

When prompted for a User Account, Type in your user account with gs\ (ex: gs\mmcgroarty-pr) Then enter your AD Password and click Connect.
(If user does not have a PR you must configure Remote access to the target machine by following the instructions here:

User name and password

If you see this window, then you need to approve the certificate so it will pass through when trying to sign into a Windows computer. Select Show Certificate, expand the “Trust”, then in each drop down window, select “Always Trust”. When you see the Cert Prompt click Continue

Approve certificate
Trust certificate
Always trust the certificate
Check box to always trust the certificate

Once Certificate shows blue and Trusted, you should receive following prompt to enter AD credentials (AD username and AD Password).

Enter username and AD password again

Once connected to the machine you will be alerted that you must sign in with Smart Card, Click OK

Sign in to PC

Click Sign in Options bottom and select Smart Card

Sign in options - Select smart card

Login with PIN

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