VPN (Virtual Private Network)

Domains Supported: All    Platforms Supported: Windows, macOS, Linux (Linux has unofficial client support)

How to connect to the VPN & When to use the VPN


Introduction

A VPN is a way of connecting your off-site computer directly to the University network. It allows you to access internal resources such as other computers, network storage, websites and journals, using the applications already installed on your off-site computer.

It is useful when working from home on a home PC or work laptop, or when using "internet only" networks such as Eduroam or UniofCam.


To use the VPN service you will need to be subscribed to the CSCS network connection and user account services.  You must install a VPN client on the PC you wish to connect from.

If you just need to access email or files, there are other methods – see this summary

Supported Devices

Our VPN service is provided through our firewall which is manufactured by FortiGate. Connection to our VPN service requires the use of a software client called FortiClient which must be downloaded. Instructions for this and links to the download are provided alongside this document.
Currently we support the following devices:

  • PC – Windows 10
  • macOS 10.13 High Sierra and upwards
  • Linux – Some variants, limited support but tested with Ubuntu and Debian

We do not officially support tablets or phones at this time.

Capacity

Due to the Covid19 outbreak, we have increased our VPN capacity on the Biomedical Campus to 4000 concurrent connections, and the SLCU and Zoology sites to 1000. We anticipate this is sufficient for all users to work from home.

Cost and Eligibility

There is no cost; it is included with our user and network service.

Registering to Use the Service

Biomedical Campus

There is no need to register, simply install the client.


Zoology and SLCU

There is no need to register, simply install the client.