Citrix VM Disconnects on Mac: Fix by Shortening Computer Name

The Big Idea

If you're using a Mac and keep getting kicked out of your Citrix virtual machine, try this quick fix.
Shortening your computer name to under 15 characters often solves the issue.

How to change your Mac computer name

  1. Click the Apple menu > System Settings
  2. Go to General (scroll if needed)
  3. Tap About
  4. Click your computer name and enter a shorter one
This fix is for Macs only. Windows users don't seem to have the same issue.

Example Error:

TrainingVM vSphere Failed to Start

TrainingVM vSphere Failed to Start

Recommendation wait a few minutes, then try again. If the issue persists, contact your system administrator.

Need IT Assistance?
helpdesk@fvtc.edu | 920-735-5644 | In-Person Support
Support Hours
Monday-Friday • 7:00 AM-4:00 PM CT
Location
Appleton Campus • Room A120
1825 N. Bluemound Drive
Appleton, WI 54912-2277
Fox Valley Technical College IT Helpdesk
Supporting FVTC, National Criminal Justice Training Center (NCJTC), ICAC Task Force Program, and APICS/ASCM Partner organizations


Keywords:
mac, citrix, vm, vsphere, virtual machine mac, mac virtual machine, virtual machine, failed to start 
Doc ID:
156780
Owned by:
IT Helpdesk in FVTC
Created:
2025-11-18
Updated:
2026-08-24
Sites:
Fox Valley Technical College