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Home > Documentation > Tip Sheets > Using the VPN: Connecting to the University Network

Tip Sheets

Using the VPN: Connecting to the University Network

The Virtual Private Network (VPN) lets you, as a University community member, access University network resources as if you were on campus no matter where you are in the world. However, you do not need the VPN to access library resources and most other campus resources. It is only necessary to access certain restricted resources, such as non-web-based file shares. If you are unsure about whether or not you need to use the VPN, check with local support or call 4-TECH before installing the VPN software.

Before you start

• Make sure you have a CNetID.
• Download and install the Cisco VPN software from the Site Licensing website. Installation instructions are on the support page as well as on the Support website.

Getting Connected

With Windows

1. Open the VPN Client by going to Start → Program → Cisco Systems VPN Client → VPN Client.
2. Once the client is up, go to Connection Entries and double-click University of Chicago VPN.
3. The system will then prompt you for your Username and Password: enter your CNetID and CNet password and click OK.
4. When prompted for the terms of usage, click Continue to agree and you will then be connected to the VPN!
5. The VPN Client automatically minimizes once it has made a connection. When you are ready to disconnect, load the program again from the Program menu and go to Connection Entries → Disconnect.

With Mac OS X

1. Open the VPN Client by going to Hard Drive → Applications → VPNClient.
2. Once the client is up, go to Connection Entries and double-click UniversityofChicagoVPN.
3. The system will then prompt you for your Username and Password: enter your CNetID and CNet password and click OK.
4. When prompted for the terms of usage, click Continue to agree and you will then be connected to the VPN!
5. When you are ready to disconnect, go to Connection Entries → Disconnect.

All data sent over the University VPN is automatically encrypted while in transit to the University network border. Once you've connected, just use your network connection as you normally would - except that you should now be able to access University network resources as if you were on campus. Follow the instructions of your local department to get access to fileshares and other services.

For additional assistance, please visit the Support site or call 4-TECH

View a printable PDF of this Tip Sheet.

Last updated: 8/1/08