Hi Susja,
When you are connecting to a remote Windows PC using a PIV or Smart Card from a MacBook, that can be a bit more complex than from a Windows client due to various compatibility and middleware requirements.
Here's are some steps to set up your MacBook Pro by using a Smart Card for Microsoft Remote Desktop:
- Middleware: Before your Mac can read the smart card, you will need middleware that can understand and interact with the card. Software like Centrify Express or PKard for Mac are popular options. Install the appropriate middleware for your card.
- Smart Card Reader: Ensure that you have a compatible smart card reader for your Mac. It should be connected and the drivers for it should be installed.
- Setting up Microsoft Remote Desktop:
- Launch the Microsoft Remote Desktop app.
- Click on the "+" button at the top to add a new connection.
- Fill out the necessary fields such as PC name.
- Under "User Account", instead of choosing "Add User Account", select "Ask When Required". This should prompt you for credentials when you try to connect.
- Connection:
- Once everything is set up, try to connect to your office PC using Microsoft Remote Desktop. When prompted for authentication, insert your PIV/Smart Card into the reader.
- If your middleware and drivers are set up correctly, it should recognize the smart card and ask for the PIN.
- Enter the PIN associated with your PIV/Smart Card.
- Troubleshooting:
- If you're still having issues, check the version of Microsoft Remote Desktop. Ensure you have the latest version installed from the Mac App Store.
- Check that your middleware is up-to-date and is known to work with Microsoft Remote Desktop.
- Verify that your Smart Card reader drivers are updated.
- It might be worth reaching out to your office's IT support or the software's support channel. Sometimes there might be specific configurations or updates that are required which are specific to your organization's setup.
- Alternative Software: If you are still facing issues, you might consider looking into other RDP clients for Mac that might offer better support for PIV/Smart Card authentication. Remember, integrating Smart Card authentication on a non-native platform can sometimes be tricky, so it might require a bit of patience and troubleshooting. If you’re unfamiliar with some of these steps, I would recommend getting in touch with your IT department or someone with experience in this area to assist you further.
I hope this steps could help?