The University of Helsinki will strengthen its digital security by introducing multi-factor authentication (MFA) also on virtual desktops running the Omnissa Horizon Client program as of 4 June 2025. Earlier this spring, the use of MFA was expanded to cover nearly all the University’s online services and user groups.
Multifactor authentication will be introduced in the University of Helsinki virtual desktop environment (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure, VDI) from 4 June 2025. In other respects, the VDI environment will be used like before in the Omni Horizon Client (formerly VMware Horizon Client) or in a browser at vdi.helsinki.fi.
MFA has earlier been introduced in the corresponding AVD virtual desktop service intended for students and teaching purposes.
Why is MFA also being introduced in virtual desktops?
Cybercriminals are constantly carrying out automated searches of hackable services online, attempting to break into them. The University of Helsinki’s virtual desktop is also a potential target for unauthorised users, as it can be used from anywhere in the world. The aim now is to reduce the risk of the University of Helsinki’s VDI environment being exploited, and Multifactor Authentication is an effective method for this.
An increasing number of exploitation attempts have already been detected in the University's VDI environment, which is why we must raise the security level of the VDI environment to protect the University community and its members.
How will the change be seen in practice?
- Starting on 4 June 2025, single sign-on (SSO) will be used as the authentication method for virtual desktops in the same way as for the University's other online services.
- After selecting a virtual desktop, log in to the operating system with a password, as you would do when logging in to a University workstation.
- For more detailed instructions, see the updated instructions for virtual desktops available on the IT Helpdesk instructions site
A virtual desktop, or the VDI environment, allows you to use a University workstation remotely. The virtual desktop contains the same programs as a conventional University workstation.
Read more about the features of the VDI environment in the IT Helpdesk instructions.
Also read the IT Helpdesk instructions on the AVD virtual desktop, intended especially for students and teaching purposes.
If you need support in using the VDI environment, please contact IT Helpdesk:
- Chat (weekdays 9 AM–3 PM, chatbot 24/7): helsinki.fi/helpdesk
- Tel.: +358 29 415 5555 (weekdays 9 AM–3 PM, local network charge/mobile call charge)
- Email: helpdesk@helsinki.fi