Q: What is a virtual environment?
A: A virtual environment is a software-simulated space—such as a remote computer desktop, an isolated coding workspace, or a 3D digital world—that operates independently of physical hardware. It allows users to securely run software, applications, or access computing resources without altering their local device's main system.
Q: What is available at CWRU for Virtual Environments?
A: At Case Western Reserve University, virtual environments primarily take the form of MyApps, which streams university-licensed software and virtual Windows desktops to any personal device without local installation. CWRU also expands this concept to specialized Research Virtual Machines for high-performance computing and immersive mixed-reality spaces (like HoloAnatomy through the Interactive Commons) for hands-on, spatial learning.
Q: What is MyApps?
A: MyApps provides a virtual desktop environment with access to run all of the software licensed to any CWRU community member based on program of study, course enrollment or role at the university, without the need for installation on a computer. For more information click Here.
Q: Why did we move to a new VDI solution?
A: We are always trying to improve performance and new innovations with virtualization. We feel this will help provide a better Quality of Life for you.
Q: Do I need to install new software?
A: You do not need to install anything but have the option. Just like before you can access all content by going to myapps.case.edu as well as Here for a guide to download the desktop agent directly to your computer.
Q: Does it function the same way?
A: Yes, it's pretty similar but has a new interface.
Q: Can I still stream Apps?
A: Of course. Just click on the icon to launch the application.
Q: How do I access MyApps?
A: For a guide to access MyApps click Here or go to myapps.case.edu
Q: How does App streaming work?
A: When you login to the desktop or the web portal, you will see icons showing what applications you have access to. Just click on the app to launch it. You can open multiple apps at once. Click Here for a guide.
Q: Why don't I see all the apps I had before?
A: Due to licensing we are making sure applications are used for Academic purposes only. If you feel that you should have access to an application for your class or club email UTech Service Desk
Q: Where did my H drive go?
A: Your H drive has been replaced with OneDrive and will need to be set up 1 time to access. Click Here for a guide
Q: What is Onedrive?
A: Microsoft Onedrive is a cloud storage service that lets you securely store, back up, and access your files from any device with an internet connection. It seamlessly integrates with Microsoft 365, allowing you to edit and collaborate on Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents in real time with others.
Q: Why don't I see all my files in OneDrive?
A: Could be your files are being synced. Click Here for a guide
Q: Why are we using OneDrive?
A: With the previous system you were limited to 5GB of available storage. With this transition, this has been increased to 1TB of storage. You are also able to access your data more easily both in and out of the VDI environment.
Q: How do I access my files in Onedrive?
A: There are a few ways you can access them. When using the W11 VDI click Here. When trying to access them from a Streamed App click Here. And if you want to access them from the web portal click Here.
Q: Why don’t I see my OneDrive when streaming an app?
A: You need to sign into the OneDrive App first to be able see your OneDrive in other streamed applications.
Q: Where do I save my files
A: Click Here if you are using the Virtual Windows 11 Desktop or click Here if you are Streaming an Application.
Q: Why can't I launch an App?
A: If you are experiencing issues when opening up any app, wait a few seconds to see if it loads up. If you get an error, please email UTech Service Desk
Q: Why can't I launch a W11 VDI?
A: When you open the W11 VDI a box should come up to show a log on screen. If you recently closed it out and tried to quickly log back in an error might happen. Please wait 10-20 seconds to try again. If you are still experiencing issues when opening up the VDI. Please email UTech Service Desk
Q: Do I need to be on a VPN to use MyApps?
A: No you do not. Just login to the desktop app or the web portal to access.
Q: How do I transfer files from my local computer to the Windows VDI?
A: You can Login to your OneDrive portal locally to upload your files. You can also upload your VDI session Here and you can use the web portal to upload them Here.
Q: Can I launch Canvas from the Virtual Desktop?
A: Yes! Open a web browser and go to the Canvas URL to login and access your account.
Q: How to use Thin Clients - Labs at CWRU
A: Just login using your CWRU ID to access the Windows 11 virtual desktop.