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NOTICE:
Cisco has released a fully supported VPN client for Microsoft Vista. The client is now available to the University Community.
What is VPN?
Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides a secure "private" connection between external networks and the University's internal network (UCnet), to allow authorized users of the UCnet to access private servers or restricted services from off campus, home or when traveling.
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Why are we using VPN at the University?
With today's Internet security concerns and privacy regulations, it is important to protect the University's research data, employee information, student records, etc., and make them available only to authorized individuals.
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What is a VPN Client?
A VPN client is software that is installed on an individual's computer to allow the computer to connect to the University VPN and be authorized to access internal servers and services.
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When do I need VPN client software?
Most UC faculty, staff and students will not need VPN client software. Only those individuals who need access to a private server or restricted service (for example, library resources licensed for use only by UC faculty, staff and students) from off campus using an Internet Service Provider like ZoomTown or RoadRunner will need VPN client software. You do not need the VPN client if you access the UC network using the UC Remote Access modems. You do not need the VPN client to access UC's main web site or most college and department web sites. You do not need VPN to use Blackboard, or to send and receive e-mail.
However, you do need the VPN client software if you are off campus and need access to a departmental fileserver or restricted service that is not open to the public. For example, if you are a server system administrator and want to work on your server from home, or if you are a faculty member who needs access to your own personal office desktop computer, you will need to install the VPN client. Some services will not be available at all from off campus, even with VPN. You can obtain more information by calling the UCit Help Desk at 556-4357.
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How do I get the VPN client software?
The VPN client software is available for download. You will need a UC Remote Access (UCRA) account and password to access the VPN web page. If you do not already have a UCRA account, you can establish an account immediately.
The Windows and Macintosh VPN client software is pre-configured for use with the UC network.
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Can I use the VPN with any Internet Service Provider (ISP)?
Yes, you can. If you have questions about compatibility, contact your ISP.
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What desktop computers can I use with the VPN?
UC supports computers running Windows, Macintosh, and Linux VPN clients. If you have workstations running operating systems other than these, call the UCit Help Desk at 556-4357.
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What are the system requirements for use of the Cisco VPN Client?
Windows:
- PC compatible computer with a Pentium processor
- Microsoft Windows 9x-XP
- 18MB hard disk space
- 32MB RAM minimum
- Internal or external modem, cable or DSL network access
Macintosh OS-X (10.1 or later only):
- PowerPC processor or newer
- 10MB disk space
- 128MB RAM minimum
- Internal or external modem, cable or DSL network access
Linux:
- OS kernel 2.2 - 2.4
- 10MB hard disk space
- 32MB RAM minimum
- Internal or external modem, cable or DSL network access
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Do I have to do anything special to use the VPN client?
- If you run personal firewall software (for example, Black Ice), you must configure it to "trust" (allow access to) the VPN IP addresses. For information, call the UCit Help Desk at 556-4357.
- You cannot have Microsoft Internet Connection Sharing installed on Windows 98 or Windows 2000 or XP while you are running the VPN client. [Please see special note on VPN download page]
- You must disable IPSec on Windows 2000. [Please see special note on VPN download page]
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If I need help or have more questions, whom should I call?
Call the UCit Help Desk at 556-4357 with installation or general questions on VPN. The Help Desk also can determine whether there are communication problems with the VPN access over the phone. Problems that cannot be resolved immediately will be escalated to the Network Operations Center (NOC) for resolution.
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