Logging in to Ada from Windows

29-Nov-2007

Introduction

Logging in to Ada and running graphical applications is seamless when using SSH from a Unix/Linux system to connect to Ada due to features built into the operating system. However, Windows does not have such features. Therefore, extra software has to be installed and configured in order to login to Ada and run graphical applications on Ada. The instructions below will describe how to achieve this. Note: If you are on RiceNet2 and need to login to Ada from Windows, please see our new FAQ on this subject.

Required Software

In order to login to Ada from a Windows system, you will need to install SSH. In order to view graphical applications from Ada on your Windows system, you will need to install X-Win32. Both are available on the IT Software Distribution Page. Follow the steps below in order to use both software packages:

1. Install and Run X-Win32 if Graphical Applications are Required

Install and run X-Win32 using its default settings.

2. Install and Run SSH

Install and run SSH and edit the properties to tunnel X11 connections:
- Select Edit -> Settings -> Profile Settings -> Connection -> Tunneling.
- Make sure the Tunnel X11 Connections box is selected.
Select File -> Connect to be presented with a connection dialog box.
- For the Hostname, specify ada.rice.edu.
- For the Username, specify your Ada username.
- Leave the Port Number set to 22.
- Leave the Authentication Method set to blank (<Profile Settings>).
- Click the Connect button and login to Ada with your Ada username and password when prompted.
When you run a graphical application on Ada, such as Matlab, you will be prompted to allow the connection. Select Yes.

More Information about SSH

For more information about topics related to SSH, please see our FAQ.