Using the Softdrive App

The Softdrive Desktop App is a cross-platform application available for Windows, macOS, and Linux that allows users to securely access their Softdrive virtual machines from a local computer. The app acts as the primary client for connecting to cloud-hosted desktops and applications, providing a seamless and responsive remote computing experience.

Users can sign in using multiple authentication methods, including email and password, Microsoft Single Sign-On (SSO), Cognito, or Okta, depending on how their organization is configured. Once authenticated, the app connects users to their assigned virtual machines within the Softdrive platform, ensuring secure access, session continuity, and optimized performance across supported operating systems.

Prerequisites

• A Softdrive account with access to at least one virtual machine
• The Softdrive Desktop App installed on your local computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
• A supported authentication method enabled for your organization (email/password, Microsoft SSO, Cognito, or Okta)
• A stable internet connection
• User permissions assigned by your Softdrive administrator (if applicable)

Index

Content

1. Download and Install the Softdrive App

• Download the Softdrive Desktop App for your operating system:

  • Windows
  • macOS
  • Linux
• Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
• Once installed, open the Softdrive application.

2. Sign In to the Softdrive App

When the application launches, you will be presented with the login screen.

You can sign in using one of the following methods, depending on your organization’s configuration:

• Email and Password
  Enter your Softdrive account email and password, then click Login.
• Microsoft Single Sign-On (SSO)
  Click Microsoft to sign in using your Microsoft account.
• Cognito
  Click Cognito to authenticate using your organization’s Cognito identity provider.
• Okta
  Click Okta to sign in using your Okta credentials.

If you are unsure which login method to use, contact your Softdrive administrator.

If your organization has two-factor authentication enabled, you will need to authorize this device.

3. Access Your Virtual Machines

After signing in successfully, the Softdrive app will display the virtual machines assigned to your account.

• Select the virtual machine you want to access.
• Click Connect.
• The virtual desktop session will open and you can begin working immediately.

**If you have issues connecting, please reach out to your IT team to ensure the necessary ports are open in your antivirus or firewall settings.

Once connected to your Softdrive machine, log in using your virtual machine credentials.

After logging in, you will see your desktop, where you can access the applications needed for your daily work.

4. Disconnecting from a Session

When you are finished using your virtual machine:

• Close the session window, or
• Use the Exit Softstream option from within the app menu.