The KAUST 2X Remote Application service provides secure access to KAUST-published Windows applications through a virtual application environment. Its primary use case is enabling eligible members of the KAUST community to run Windows-only software on macOS devices, without installing Windows locally or using dual-boot solutions.
Applications are hosted centrally and accessed remotely, allowing them to behave as if they are installed directly on your device. This helps ensure consistent access, centralized management, and improved security.
Using a KAUST IT-Provided Machine
If you are using a KAUST IT-provided computer, the required Parallels (2X) Remote Application client is already installed and configured for you.
Launch the Parallels / 2X Remote Application client.
Sign in using your KAUST credentials.
Select and launch the application you need.
Using a Personal Device, BYOD, or Linux Machine
If you are using a personal or BYOD device, a non-KAUST IT-managed computer, or a Linux machine, you will need to install the 2X Remote Application client manually before you can access KAUST-published applications.
Download the appropriate client for your operating system using the download link provided below on this page.
Install the client by following the on-screen instructions.
Once installation is complete, open the 2X Remote Application client and configure a new connection.
Signing In and Configuring the Connection
When configuring the connection, you will be prompted to enter connection and login details. Use the instructions below and refer to the screenshots for guidance.
Standard KAUST Account Setup
Use this setup for everyday application access, including running Windows-only software on macOS.
Screenshot: Example configuration for a standard KAUST account.
Connection settings
Primary Connection:remoteapps.kaust.edu.sa
Connection Mode:Gateway SSL Mode
Port:443
Friendly Name: Any name of your choice (most people use KAUST)
Friendly Name is only a label to help you recognize the connection and does not affect how the service works.
Login settings
Authentication Type:Credentials
Username: Your KAUST username (for example, username)
Password: Your standard KAUST account password
Save Password: Optional, based on your preference
Domain:kaust
Administrator (a-) Account Setup
Use this setup only if you have been explicitly instructed to do so for advanced or system administration tasks.
Screenshot: Example configuration for an administrator (a-) account.
Connection settings
Primary Connection:remoteapps-admin.kaust.edu.sa
Connection Mode:Gateway SSL Mode
Port:443
Friendly Name: Any name of your choice (many people use KAUST-Admin)
Friendly Name is only a label to help you recognize the connection and does not affect how the service works.
Login settings
Authentication Type:Credentials
Username: Your administrator username with the a- prefix (for example, a-username)
Password: Your administrator (a-) account password
Save Password: Optional, based on your preference
Domain:kaust
Important: Administrator (a-) accounts use a different password than standard KAUST accounts. The passwords are not shared or synchronized.
After Signing In
A list of published KAUST applications will appear.
Select an application to launch it.
The application will open and behave as if it were installed locally on your device.
When you are finished, sign out of the application and the 2X client, especially when using a shared or personal device.
Important Notes
Off-campus access requires a connection to the KAUST VPN.
Administrator (a-) accounts are restricted and should be used only where required and approved.
If you are unsure which account or setup to use, contact the IT Service Desk for guidance.
Run Windows-only applications on macOS Access KAUST-published Windows software from macOS devices without installing Windows or using dual-boot solutions.
No local installation of applications Applications run remotely and appear as if they are installed on your device, reducing setup time and local system requirements.
Secure access using your KAUST credentials Sign in with your KAUST account to access approved applications in a controlled and secure environment.
Works on KAUST and personal devices Use the service on KAUST IT-managed computers or personal devices, provided access and network requirements are met.
On-campus and remote access Access applications while connected to the KAUST network on campus or remotely via KAUST VPN.
Advanced and System Administrator Features
Access to specialized and restricted applications Supports approved access to advanced tools and software that may not be suitable for local installation.
Administrative and system management use cases Enables system administrators to perform management or operational tasks through controlled remote access.
Enterprise application access Provides access to selected enterprise systems, including SAP, where applicable and authorized.
Centralized application delivery and control Applications and access policies are managed centrally by KAUST IT to ensure consistency and compliance.
