MRG Simulation Remote Access Guide

This guide covers the end-to-end process for securely connecting to the MRG Simulation PC (marine-server / "board") from any personal machine (Ubuntu, macOS, or Windows).

Step 1: Georgia Tech VPN Connection

Because the simulation server sits behind the university firewall, you must be on the campus network or connected to the VPN to access it.

1. Download the Client: Install the Georgia Tech GlobalProtect VPN (vpn.gatech.edu).
2. Connect: Log in with your GT credentials and Duo 2FA.
3. Crucial Setting: Ensure your VPN profile is set to "Full Tunnel" or "All Traffic" if you experience routing drops.

Step 2: Request Access & Account Creation

Before you can use the simulation computer, you must sign in with a password and create a dedicated workspace for yourself.

1. Reach out to an MRG board member to get the current administrative or temporary password for the machine (e.g., the password for the board user).
2. Open your local terminal (Terminal on Mac/Linux, PowerShell on Windows).
3. SSH into the machine using the temporary credentials by running: ssh board[@143.215.186.17](<mailto:[email protected]>)
4. Type the password when prompted (characters will be hidden as you type).
5. Once logged in, create your own personal user account: sudo adduser your_username
6. Follow the prompts to set your new personal password.
7. If you need admin rights to run Docker/install packages, add yourself to the sudo group: sudo usermod -aG sudo your_username
8. Type "exit" to disconnect from the temporary account.

Step 3: Connecting via SSH (Password Required)

Now that your account is created, you will use it to access the machine moving forward.

1. Open your terminal.