VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) provides a secure encrypted tunnel from your computer to the CU-Boulder network whether you are on campus or off. If you are using the client from off campus, it appears that your computer traffic is originating from the CU network thus allowing access to resources, such as library resources, that require on-campus connections. Use of a VPN is also advisable for secure Internet browsing and file server access when connecting wirelessly.
How will you be using CU-Boulder's VPN service?
Refer to the following chart to find the best option for your use of CU-Boulder's VPN service:
| Option | Who may get it | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Desktop Applications | CU-Boulder affiliates with an IdentiKey | CU-Boulder offers a couple of different applications (CIsco VPN Client and Network Connect) to use in order to have a secure on-campus network connection when you are away from campus. These applications are available for all CU-Boulder affiliates with an IdentiKey. |
| Web Browser (VPN Web Interface) | CU-Boulder affiliates with an IdentiKey | A simple web-based VPN connection that allows access to a wide variety of on-campus and off-campus resources through a web browser (remote desktop, SSH, file sharing, etc.). The VPN Web Interface allows for a simultaneous connection to the CU-Boulder network and your home network. |
| Mobile Devices | CU-Boulder affiliates with an IdentiKey | A VPN solution is available for CU-Boulder affiliates using Apple Devices. Junos Pulse is a free network client application that allows for mobile devices to connect to CU-Boulder's VPN. Android devices are not currently fully compatible with CU-Boulder's VPN service. |
| Custom VPN Service | Departments, groups or services requiring their own protected IP range. | Your custom VPN will be configured with requested features and a specific URL that can be entered in the Network Connect application, accessed via the VPN Web Interface or entered in a Mobile Device application (by request). |
| Advanced Users & Server Admins | Advanced VPN Users and server administrators | Limited connection service and IP ranges for VPN service applicable to server administrators. |
- Provides an on-campus connection from off-campus.
- Access libraries resources from anywhere.
- If you can only get to a resource, like a file server, from an on campus connection the VPN is the answer.
- It makes sure that the traffic from your computer to the VPN server can not be eavesdropped. This is often more important when you are connecting from home or a wireless hot-spot.
- CU-Boulder's VPN options are provided as common-good services to all faculty, staff and students which means there is no direct cost to the individual or department.
- CU-Boulder's VPN options are available to all CU-Boulder affiliates with an active IdentiKey.
Click on a VPN option below for additional information (including connection and download information) about the service:
For further assistance with any of the VPN services, contact the IT Service Center.
- Network Connect's service level commitment: 2
- VPN Web Interfance's service level commitment: 2
- Cisco VPN's service level commitment: 2
- Custom VPN's service level commitment: 2
Learn more about Service Level Commitments.
For assistance using any of the VPN options, contact the IT Service Center.