VPN FAQs
VPN
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Faculty and staff can submit a request for installation to the Technology Help Desk. The request must include the academic or business reason for the access. Once the request is approved, you will be required to bring the device to the Technology Help Desk in Swenson Hall. Our network technicians will complete the necessary configurations and install the VPN software (Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client). The process for installation can take up to 5 business days depending on current work load.
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Contact the Technology Help Desk and provide them with your computer number as well as a phone number that they can reach you at.
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Here are a few steps to help you secure your VPN connection and your campus devices:
- Always disconnect from VPN when you have completed your work or are going to be away from your device for any period of time.
- Never keep your VPN credentials on your device or your device carrying case.
- Store all critical data files on your network drives and password protect those files
- Never allow you device to "Save Passwords"
- Avoid leaving devices in cars, hotel rooms or in checked luggage
- Pay particular attention to your devices in airports or other public places
- If your device is stolen, immediately contact the Technology Help Desk or if it is after hours contact Campus Safety.
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VPN or Virtual Private Networks allow users to access the campus network from campus issued devices such as laptop or notebook computers when they are off campus and have access to the internet. The VPN uses technology to ensure that the data going over the public internet is encrypted and secure.
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You can access any campus network resource the same as if you were on campus including access to network drives (i.e. your g: drive), email, and any other network based software that you would have access to if you were connected on campus.
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Polices for using this service are included in the broader Remote Access Policy. All other University policies including Appropriate Use Guidelines must be followed when connecting through VPN. For a complete list of policies, visit our Technology Services Policies web page.
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Your username and password can be reset using our UW-Superior Login Portal, this password is the same password as all your campus logins.
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Currently VPN connections are only available to Faculty and Staff with an approved academic or business need.
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Yes. The installation and steps for logging on are slightly different than for PC installation but most MAC devices are supported.
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No. VPN is only available for installation on UW-Superior owned devices.
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No. Because data you are sending and receiving must be encrypted and decrypted, you will sacrifice some performance. The speed of the connection is also dependent on the speed of your internet connection. The campus network is typically much faster than most hotels, airports or other public networks.
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No. VPN secures data as it is transmitted over the internet. You are still responsible for the security of the data that resides on your device and responsible for the physical security of the device.
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The steps depend on the device that you are connecting with, but in general:
- Navigate to the All Programs list and click the link to the "Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client"
- Click the CONNECT button
- Read the "Use Statement" dialog box and click the ACCEPT button
- Enter the user name and password that was assigned to you for this type of connection and click the continue button.
Note that your user name and password may be different than your campus login credentials.
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How you disconnect depends on the device, but in general you launch the "Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client" dashboard from the system tray or list of programs and click the DISCONNECT button on the dashboard.