Is it possible to run Coded UI tests without having to connect via remote desktop?

Question

I\'m attempting to automate Coded UI tests.

My test controller launches the tests on a remote test server, which I normally access via a Remote Desktop connection.

Answer 1

From MSDN:

The computer that is running an agent on which you want to run coded UI tests cannot be locked or have an active screen saver.

If you are running your CodedUi Tests through Visual Studio (means that tests are executed under your account), I believe that you must be connected via remote desktop to the remote test server.

However, you can use Microsoft Test Manager to run your tests:

1. Create a virtual environment.
2. Setup your virtual machines so they can run automated tests.
3. Install the Test Controller and Test Agent.
   -Set up the Test Agent to run as Interactive Proccess so it can run CodedUi Tests.
   -Set up the Test Controller to run with Microsoft Test Manager.
4. Create a Test Plan through MTM and run tour tests in your virtual environment. There is no need to be connected in the remote server now, because your tests will run under the account that runs the Test Agent (note: you should create one for testing purposes).