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Home > Documentation > Network Documentation and Troubleshooting > VPN Client Configuration > VPN FAQ

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VPN FAQ

  1. What is the VPN? And why would I use it?
  2. Who can use the VPN??
  3. Can I use the VPN if I'm running Linux?
  4. Does the VPN work with 64 bit OSes, like Windows 7 or Windows Vista?
  5. Can I use the VPN with Windows 98/ME/2000 or Mac OS 10.2/10.3/10.4?
  6. What is the IP address range of cVPN?

  1. What is the VPN? And why would I use it?

    A virtual private network (VPN) is a method for creating a secure connection on top of an insecure network. The University uses it to allow access to on-campus only resources from off campus. It is not recommended as a substitute for the web proxy, since it requires the installation of fairly complex and invasive software that changes how your computer's networking behaves, but may be required to access an on campus file server, for example.

    For an easy-to-understand technical description of a VPN, see VPNs in Plain Speak.

  2. Who can use the VPN?

    Current students, staff, and faculty of the University are eligible to use the VPN. A current student is defined as a student presently in a quarter during which they are taking classes.

  3. Can I use the VPN if I'm running Linux?

    NSIT does not support VPN client on the Linux OS. The VPN does however provide an installer package for advanced users who support themselves.

  4. Does the VPN work with 64 bit OSes, like Windows 7 or Windows Vista?

    Yes.

  5. Can I use the VPN with Windows 98/ME/2000 or Mac OS 10.2/10.3/10.4?

    NSIT does not support the VPN for use with versions of Apple OS X older than 10.5 or versions of Windows older than Windows XP. However, the VPN may still work with those operating systems.

  6. What is the IP address range of cVPN?

    cVPN's IP address range is 205.208.120.0/22.
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Last updated: 11/5/09