When I click Get RDP file, Internet Explorer gives an error and states it cannot download index.php from vcl.ncsu.edu

This is related to a security setting in Internet Explorer which for some reason does not allow file downloads over a secure connection (https).

To fix this problem:

1. Within Internet Explorer, click "Tools"
2. Click "Internet Options"
3. Select the "Advanced" tab
4. Under the Security settings section make sure "Do not save encrypted pages to disk" is checked
5. Click Apply
6. Close the Internet Options window

Attempt to get the RDP file again: click "Get RDP file".  You should be able to save the RDP file to your local computer and open it to access the remote VCL machine.