How to Use HTML Access with Horizon Virtual Desktop and Unified Access Gateway

In this blog post, we will discuss how to use HTML Access with Horizon virtual desktop and Unified Access Gateway (UAG). We will cover the steps to configure the Connection Server to allow for HTML Access connections, as well as some best practices and considerations for implementing this solution in your organization.

Background

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Horizon is a virtual desktop platform that allows users to access their desktops from any device with an internet connection. One of the benefits of using Horizon is the ability to use HTML Access to connect to the virtual desktop, which provides a more secure and flexible way of accessing the desktop compared to traditional VPN connections.

UAG is a security gateway that provides secure access to web-based applications and desktops. By using UAG with Horizon, you can provide secure access to your virtual desktops without the need for a VPN connection.

Configuring Connection Server for HTML Access

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To allow for HTML Access connections to your Horizon virtual desktop, you will need to configure the Connection Server. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Create a new configuration file called “locked.properties” in the [conf] folder of the Connection Server. This file will contain the necessary settings for HTML Access.

2. Edit the “locked.properties” file and add the following line: “portarHost=(gateway host name)”. This sets the hostname of the UAG gateway as the port arbiter for HTML Access connections.

3. If you have multiple UAG gateways, you can add additional lines to the “locked.properties” file to specify each gateway’s hostname. For example: “portarHost.1=(gateway host name 1) portarHost.2=(gateway host name 2)”

4. Save the “locked.properties” file and restart the Connection Server. This will enable HTML Access connections to your Horizon virtual desktop.

Best Practices and Considerations

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When implementing HTML Access with Horizon and UAG, there are several best practices and considerations to keep in mind:

1. Use a secure connection: Make sure that all connections to the UAG gateway are secure, using HTTPS or another secure protocol. This will help protect your virtual desktops from unauthorized access.

2. Configure access controls: Use access controls to restrict who can access your virtual desktops via HTML Access. This can include setting up user authentication and authorization policies.

3. Limit exposure to the internet: Consider limiting the exposure of your UAG gateway to the internet, such as by placing it behind a firewall or using a NAT device. This will help protect your virtual desktops from potential attacks.

4. Monitor and update regularly: Regularly monitor your HTML Access connections and update your UAG gateway software to ensure that any security vulnerabilities are addressed.

5. Consider implementing single sign-on: If you have a single sign-on solution in place, consider implementing it with your Horizon virtual desktops and UAG gateway. This will allow users to access their desktops without the need for multiple logins.

Conclusion

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In this blog post, we have covered how to use HTML Access with Horizon virtual desktop and UAG. By following the steps outlined in this post, you can provide secure access to your virtual desktops using HTML Access. Remember to keep in mind the best practices and considerations outlined above when implementing this solution in your organization.