RDWeb, short for Remote Desktop Web Access, provides a web-based portal for accessing RemoteApp programs and Remote Desktops published by a Remote Desktop Services (RDS) deployment. It allows users to connect to these resources from any modern web browser without the need to install a full Remote Desktop client on their local machine. This offers flexibility and accessibility, particularly for users on different operating systems or those who need to access resources from untrusted networks.

The core component is typically accessed through a URL similar to https://your-rdweb-server/RDWeb. This webpage presents a list of available RemoteApps and Desktops that the user has permission to access. Authentication is generally handled through standard web authentication methods, such as username/password or multi-factor authentication, ensuring secure access to the RDS infrastructure.

The RDWeb portal leverages two primary methods for establishing a connection: the traditional ActiveX control and the HTML5 web client. The ActiveX control, historically used in older versions of Internet Explorer, requires the installation of a browser plugin. While functional, it's becoming increasingly less relevant due to the decline of ActiveX support in modern browsers. The preferred and increasingly standard approach is the HTML5 web client.

The HTML5 web client, often found at a URL like https://your-rdweb-server/RDWeb/webclient/index.html, offers a browser-based experience without the need for any plugins. This allows users to connect to RemoteApps and Desktops from any device with an HTML5-compatible browser, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS, and even mobile devices like tablets and smartphones.

The index.html file serves as the entry point for the HTML5 web client application. It contains the necessary HTML, JavaScript, and CSS to load the client interface and handle user interactions. When a user clicks on a RemoteApp or Desktop icon within the RDWeb portal, the HTML5 client initiates a secure connection to the Remote Desktop Gateway server, which then brokers the connection to the appropriate Remote Desktop Session Host (RDSH) server. All communication is encrypted, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of the data transmitted.

The HTML5 web client provides a rich user experience, including features such as clipboard redirection, printer redirection, audio redirection, drive redirection, and multi-monitor support (depending on the configuration and RDS version). These features allow users to work seamlessly with RemoteApps and Desktops as if they were running locally. Furthermore, the web client supports features like Single Sign-On (SSO), which streamlines the login process, providing a more convenient user experience.

RDWeb, particularly with the HTML5 web client, significantly simplifies remote access management, reduces administrative overhead, and provides a consistent and secure user experience across diverse devices and platforms. It's a crucial component for organizations looking to provide flexible and secure access to applications and desktops regardless of the user's location or device.