> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.parallels.com/landing/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.parallels.com/landing/ras-mac-client-guide/v19/using-parallels-client-for-mac/configuring-a-ras-connection/connection.md).

# Connection

<figure><img src="/files/4XhPda7MUv4Gi9y6O2wr" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## **Configuring the Primary Connection**

On the **Connection** tab page, you can define a primary connection and one or more secondary connections.

The primary connection is established with the specified RAS Secure Gateway. To specify the primary connection information:

1. In the **Primary Connection** field, specify the server name or IP address. To connect to a specific RAS Theme, specify its name after the server name or IP address separated by a slash. For example, workspaceus.parallelsras.net/theme1. If not sure which Theme you should use, ask your system administrator.
2. In the **Connection Mode** drop-down menu, select one of the following options:
   * **Gateway Mode**. Parallels Client connects to the RAS Secure Gateway and the session connection is tunneled through the first available connection. This mode is ideal for servers which are only reachable via the gateway and do not require a high level of security.
   * **Gateway SSL Mode**. Same as the gateway mode above, but uses encryption to secure the data.
   * **Direct Mode**. Parallels Client first connects to the RAS Secure Gateway for the best available terminal server and then connects directly to that particular server.  This is best used when the Parallels Client and the terminal server are on the same network.
   * **Direct SSL Mode**. Same as the direct mode above, but uses encryption to secure the data.
3. In the **Port** field, specify the port on which the gateway listens for incoming connections.
4. In the **Friendly Name** field, choose and type a name of your choice for the connection.

## **Configuring a Secondary Connection**

If the Parallels RAS farm you are connecting to has more than one RAS Secure Gateway, you can define a secondary connection, which will be used as a backup connection in case the primary gateway connection fails.

To add a secondary connection:

1. Click the **Secondary Connections** button.
2. In the **Secondary Connections** dialog, click the **+** button and specify a server name or IP address. This should be a server hosting a secondary RAS Secure Gateway (the primary gateway is used by the primary connection).
3. Select the connection mode and modify the port number if necessary.
4. If you have more than one secondary connection, you can move them up or down in the list. If the primary connection cannot be established, Parallels Client will use secondary connections in the order listed.
5. Click **OK** to close the **Secondary Connections** dialog.

## **Configuring the Logon Information**

In the **Logon** section, specify the following properties:

1. Select **Auto Start** to enable Parallels Client to connect automatically on startup using this connection.
2. In the **Authentication Type** field, select one of the following:
   * **Credentials.** Enter credentials to log in to Parallels RAS.
   * **Smart card**. Insert a smart card into the card reader and then enter a PIN when prompted.
   * **Web**. Use the SAML SSO authentication.
3. If you select Credentials in the previous step, enter your username, password, and domain information.


---

# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.

## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter:

```
GET https://docs.parallels.com/landing/ras-mac-client-guide/v19/using-parallels-client-for-mac/configuring-a-ras-connection/connection.md?ask=<question>&goal=<endgoal>
```

`ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
`goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal.

The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.