Using NX to Connect to SECS
UPDATE (2008-05-16) : After an upgrade of the NX software, many users reported an issue with the top and bottom panels not appearing after login. This issue has been fixed, and anyone who encounters further issues is encouraged to report them to help@secs.oakland.edu
Introduction
NX is a technology that allows you to connect to our Linux server, Pandora, with a graphical interface. This allows you to run applications such as Matlab and Fluent from your home machine or laptop.
The performance of NX is excellent and the connection is fully encrypted. So, you can run a full screen Linux session efficiently and safely from anywhere there is an internet connection, including grizznet!
Get the Client
First, download the client from http://www.nomachine.com/download-client-windows.php
Please click here for details on the basic installation instructions.
Configure the Client to connect to SECS
Locate the shortcut icon on your desktop and double click. This will open the NX Connection Wizard.
Click Next.
Choosing your session name and host
Choose a session name. This name is only for your own purposes. You may call it anything. The name you provide for your session will be what the shortcut to your session will be called.
The host is pandora.secs.oakland.edu. The port and type of internet connection remain as the default.
Click next.
Choosing your desktop and enabling SSL
Leave the first dropdown as <tt>Unix</tt>. The second dropdown, highlighted by the red circle, must be changed to <tt>Gnome</tt>.
You may select any setting for the size of your remote desktop.
Enable SSL by checking the box next to the asterisk(*).
IMPORTANT: You MUST enable SSL encryption. If this option is left disabled, you will receive an error and your connection attempt will fail.
Logging in
Once you have finished configuring your connection, you can login. Use your SECS Login ID and password.
Conclusion
After you connect, NX will launch a GNOME session for you. It should look something like this:
From here you can run any application via the Applications menu on the top of the screen. For long sessions, we recommend you set the client to "Fullscreen" in the NX options.
