VPN

The VPN allows users to use a public network or Internet service to securely connect to protected University resources such as file and print, SQL servers, remote logins to servers and workstations.

You must request a regular VPN account through ULink.  The regular VPN access allows you to remote into your desktop and access IT file and print.  To do so, log in to ULink and click the "Computer Accounts" link located in the "Information Technology" section.

Installation documentation for Windows, Apple OS X or Linux computers.

VPN How-to Video

This video explains many VPN functions such as how to determine if you need an account, how to request an account, and finally, how to install and use the VPN.

How to setup remote desktop instructions.

VPN FAQ

How do I access University file shares/network drives/shared data?

Documentation on how to remotely connect to University file shares

I removed the VPN client and now when I log into the system the client will not install.

Use/run the VPN clean tool, it will require a reboot.  Once the computer has rebooted the client should install.

What Operating Systems are supported?

• Windows 7/Vista 32-bit and 64-bit.
• Windows 2000/XP 32-bit only
• Mac OS 10.6 (Snow Leopard)
• Linux 32-bit,  64-bit is currently not supported, but if you have the 32-bit compatibility libraries installed on your Linux workstation the VPN client might work on a 64-bit Linux OS.  FYI, the VPN client will run in a Virtual Machine. 

What is the University of Louisville VPN used for?

The Virtual Private Network (VPN) is used to allow a user from a remote location off campus to access IT computer resources that you have approved access to and are located on University of Louisville campus.  You should always use the VPN when accessing sensitive data from outside the University - this includes, HIPAA, FERPA and Research data. 

Is the VPN connection secure?

Yes the VPN uses a SSL encrypted connection to ensure no one can gain access to your traffic via a network sniffer.

Do I need Access?

You will need a VPN account if you require a connection to a desktop computer or IT resource located on University of Louisville campus.

How do I get a VPN account?

Go to ULink and login with your credentials once logged in locate Information Technology block then click on Computer Accounts link and under “Requestable Accounts” click the box next to “VPN  1:  Campus” and click save.  Your account will be created within minutes - you will not receive a seperate notification.

Installing the VPN client.

Navigate with the Internet Explorer web browser to https://vpn.louisville.edu and login there will be two tabs at the top of the page "Web Links" and "Network" click on the "Network" tab and the connection to the VPN will be established and also in the task bar next to the system clock will be a RED letter “A” showing your connected.

How do I connect to my desktop through the VPN?

Microsoft uses a feature that they call Remote Desktop

How do I allow someone who is not an employee/faculty such as a tech support or researcher access to the VPN to connect to a University IT computer resource?

This is what is known as a “Sponsored Account” where you will need to request the account for the individual that will need access to the IT resource using the VPN. The request can be made by visiting the Sponsored Account request form, Information that will be needed for an account will be the individuals first name, middle initial, last name, Date of Birth and email address.

The VPN client is not working and I am using the Odyssey Wireless client.

You will have to make some changes to the Odyssey client to get the VPN client to work with the Odyssey Wireless client.

What if I am having trouble connecting to the VPN is there someone I can call?

Yes you can contact the Help Desk at 852-7997

If you are requesting datacenter access, please fill out the elevated access form.  You will have to provide a list of applications and data that you need access to with the VPN.  If you do not provide enough detail you will be asked for more information, so please feel free to elaborate as much as necessary to describe what the applications are being used for and how the data is being used.