Gibson Virtual Desktops FAQ

What is Gibson?

Gibson Virtual Desktops give students 24/7 remote access to high-end software normally available only in SEFS computing labs. For questions or comments about Gibson, email sefshelp@uw.edu and include "Gibson" in your message.

Who can access Gibson?

The Gibson pilot project was funded by select Faculty and the STF, and as such only specific groups currently have access. We hope that eventually all SEFS Faculty, Staff and Students will have access to this service.

How do I connect?

Windows - You can download the Windows client from the server.

Mac OS X - There is an OS X client available here. Please DO NOT attempt to use the older version from the server linked above under Windows, it does not work.

iPad and Android phones/tablets - Free clients for the iPad and Android devices are available in their respective app stores, just search "VMWare View".

Once you have a client installed, simply tell it to connect to “gibson.cfr.washington.edu” and use your UWNetID login unless instructed otherwise. If you receive a messaging stating “unentitled” or have any other difficulty connecting contact sefshelp@uw.edu or call 206-616-7365 for assistance.

What is “Local mode”?

Local mode is the ability to copy a virtual computer to your physical computer and take it with you to a location that has no or limited internet connectivity. We have plans to enable this feature in the near future.

Can I access Gibson from off-campus?

Users can access this service from any location with Internet access, both on or off campus. It is also possible to access Gibson from devices with cellular data connections, such as a iOS or Android smartphone or an iPad. Your internet connection speed will affect the performance of Gibson. At this time if you’re attempting to connect using OS X from off campus you will need to either first VPN to campus, or use the beta client mentioned previously.

If I go away from my computer or disconnect, how long will I stay logged into Gibson?

Due to limited resources and number of connections available, once your session is inactive for 24 hours you will be disconnected and any unsaved work will be lost. Remember to save early and save often.

How do I save files on Gibson? What happens to files when I log off?

Gibson currently operates like many of the general-access computer labs on the UW Seattle campus. Students can save work locally during their session, but must save their work somewhere else before logging off. This can be a personal USB drive, STFP, Google Docs, SkyDrive or any other method, including simply emailing the files to one's self.

Once a user logs off of Gibson, their files are erased and the virtual desktop is made ready for the next student, just as happens in the Bloedel computing labs. This is to protect security, privacy and to allow other users a standard experience.