Note: For any links in this guidance, you can access Inside Barnardo’s from a web browser and do not need to be logged in on Barnardo’s systems.
What is Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)?
AVD is for use with a personal computer when you need to access Barnardo’s systems. It provides users with access to Windows desktop and most of our applications in a web browser environment. It creates a ‘virtual bubble’ on your personal computer where you can launch and switch between applications.
AVD is cloud-based and is available on Android, Chromebooks, iOS, MacOS and Windows.
How to get access to Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)
You will need to contact the Service Desk to request access to AVD on 0330 222 0199, email or log a call through FirstPoint
Using Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD)
1. Install the Remote Desktop App
Choose and download the Remote Desktop App for your device.
(How can I tell if my computer is running a 32-bit or a 64-bit version of Windows?)
- If it is a Barnardo’s device, install from the Company Portal (available from the Start Menu on Windows or the App list on Mac, iOS, and Android).
You can also connect through the OKTA dashboard in your web browser; however, please click here to compare the features available when connecting through the different options.
2. How to connect to your desktop with the Remote Desktop App
1. Launch the Remote Desktop App from the Start Menu (Windows), Applications (Mac) and App list (iOS and Android)
2. Select Subscribe
3. Enter your Barnardo’s email address and select Next
4. Enter your OKTA username and password, and select Sign In
5. Respond to the OKTA MFA prompt
6. If displayed, please untick ‘Allow my organisation to manage my device’ and select ‘No, sign in to this app only’.
This is important and will ensure that Barnardo’s systems are not managing your personal device.
7. Click on the required Virtual Desktop (you may have more than one)
Your desktop will be available after it’s fully loaded.
How to connect to your desktop through a web browser
Please note that the steps in bold are only displayed when connecting from a Personal Device.
1. Go to your OKTA dashboard (https://login.barnardos.org.uk)
Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox and Apple Safari are supported.
2. Enter your OKTA username and password, and select Sign In
3. Respond to the OKTA MFA prompt
4. Select the Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) App
5. Click on the required Virtual Desktop (you may have more than one)
6. Choose whether you would like the clipboard and any connected printers or microphones to operate in your AVD remote desktop session and select Allow
7. Enter your Barnardo’s password and select Submit
Your Desktop will be available after it’s fully loaded.
Any apps that you open, such as Outlook below, will appear within the remote desktop environment, showing either ‘Pooled Desktop’ or ‘Personal Desktop’ along the top.
When you want to close an application, make sure you click onto the correct ‘X’ in top right within the remote desktop.
3. Accessing standard applications (Word, Excel etc within AVD)
Use the Start menu on the Windows desktop.
4. Logging out
1. Open the Start Menu within your virtual desktop (not your computer’s normal Start menu)
2. Select your Account icon
3. Select Sign out
This will sign you out of your remote desktop session, not out of your computer.
Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) FAQs
How do I copy and paste?
Keyboard shortcuts CTRL+C (copy), CTRL+X (cut) and CTRL+V (paste) will work in most applications.
How do I use full screen mode?
Click on the 
icon in the top right corner of the Remote Desktop App to open in full screen mode.
To exit full screen mode click on the 
icon in the top right corner of the Remote Desktop App.
You can choose to automatically launch AVD in full screen mode through Settings in the Remote Desktop App -
I was away from my computer - where did AVD go?
After 30 minutes of inactivity, AVD will disconnect. Launch your desktop from the Remote Desktop App or Azure Virtual Desktop web link to re-join and continue working.
After 45 minutes of inactivity, you will be automatically logged off and lose any unsaved work.
Which devices work in AVD?
The following device types will automatically appear and operate from your device into your AVD remote desktop session –
- Cameras
- Portable Media Players
- USB
- Smart Cards
- Printers
What if I no longer require access to AVD?
Please let the Service Desk know so we can reduce our costs.