Table of Contents

What is a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?

A virtual private network, or VPN, is an encrypted connection over the Internet from a device to a network. The encrypted connection helps ensure that sensitive data is safely transmitted. It prevents unauthorized people from eavesdropping on the traffic and allows the user to conduct work remotely.

– Source "What Is a VPN? - Virtual Private Network", Cicso

What services are available via VPN?

The following services are available to all VPN users, with the exception of those designated as vendors:

• Internet access
• Remote desktop services
  • To all designated administrative and faculty/staff networks
• Core services, including Windows updates and ESET Antivirus updates
• File servers
  • Isilon (\files and \space)
  • Jupiter
• Web browsing and secure web browsing (SSL) access
  • Banner 9 admin pages (BPDB only)
  • ColdFusion
  • Atlassian suite, including Jira, Confluence, Stash, and Bamboo
  • Nolij
• Cascade (production, development)
• Library archive server
• SSH access to various servers
• Mitel connect access

How do I apply for VPN Access?

Attach your VPN Request form to a Helpdesk ticket.

Help Desk Ticket Request

Users must successfully complete the mandatory annual Security Awareness Training, and a department head and vice president or provost must approve the request.

VPN Access Request Form

What types of connections are available via the VPN?

There are two primary types of remote access available via the VPN:

• Using on-campus services (such as F:) from your CNU computer while off-campus (primary method)
• Remote desktop from a personal computer to a Windows workstation in your office (see instructions below). This option requires your personal computer to have current OS patches and up-to-date antivirus/malware such as Windows Defender (included in Windows 10) as well as Microsoft Remote Desktop Software.
  • If your personal computer does not have Microsoft Remote Desktop, download Microsoft Remote Desktop from the Microsoft Store.

More information on using the VPN

Set Up VPN Access–MacOS

Access My Computer via VPN - MacOS

Set Up VPN Access--Windows

Access My CNU Computer via VPN - Windows

VPN and Multi-Factor Authentication

Connecting to the VPN requires the usage of Multi-Factor Authentication. See Multi-Factor Authentication for more information.