Storage Options in the VDE

The virtual environment functions a lot like a normal Windows Desktop experience, however the traditional file structure that can be found in a normal Windows operating system is a little different in the virtual environment. There is no "My Documents" or other default folders other than "Desktop" and "Downloads", and any files saved here during the session will be permanently deleted upon the session's termination. 

To prevent file loss, there are other options to store files that can be retained across different sessions.

• Cloud Storage: The new eLumin VDE allows for the integration of Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive cloud storage solutions into the environment itself, allowing for a swift transfer on file to and from the virtual environment and your local computer. Instructions to integrate these solutions can be found here. Box can also be used as an option, however there is no desktop client in the environment, it will have to be accessed from the web in the environment at box.umbc.edu. 

• The Home Folder is a catch-all option for holding files across sessions. However, keep in mind that this folder needs to be loaded upon every session beginning, and the more this folder contains the longer the start-up time for the session, as well as performance loss while using the environment. DoIT does not recommend this as a primary storage option while in the environment.

Zip a File

Navigate to where the files wished to be zipped are located and select them. Right click on the group and select the 7-Zip option, then the Add to archive... option.

Name the .7z file and select a cloud storage option or the Home Folder to save it in and click OK. More on the storage options can be found above. NOTE: After ending a session all files not located in the Home Folder or a cloud storage option will be PERMANENTLY DELETED. 

Allow the program time to compress and zip the files.

After finishing the zipped file can be found in your specified folder.

Unzip a File

To unzip a file, locate the .zip/.7z/.rar file (All compressed file types will work). Then right-click on the file, select the 7-Zip option and then select the Open archive option.

The 7-Zip File Manager program will open and display the contents of the zipped file.