How to Sign up for VPN (Faculty and Staff)

If you choose to connect to the UCSF network through an ISP's dialup or DSL service, you will need to use VPN (Virtual Private Network) software to complete a secure connection to UCSF. VPN software provides a 'tunnel' through which data (in an encrypted form) is passed between your remote computer and the UCSF network.

While VPN provides security during data transmission, to assure the security files and programs stored on your remote computer, we strongly recommend you install a personal firewall on your computer before you connect to the internet.

To use the VPN:

1. Contact your Departmental Computer Support Coordinator (CSC).
The VPN will allow you to access the UCSF network. Access to departmental resources, such as servers and email will require additional department-specific configuration that your CSC will provide.


2. Contract with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) for access to the Internet.
You will not be able to use UCSF RAS in conjunction with VPN.



3. Get a VPN User ID.


Go to Online Customer Support


• Login according to the instructions on the page
  
  
• Submit a "support ticket" request
  
  
  • Complete the following "Support request information":
  • In the "Support Division" field, select "ITS Customer Support"
  • In the "System" field, select "VPN"
  • In the "Problem/Request" field, select the operating system you will use with the VPN from the list provided. (eg "Sign-Up Window 98" for a windows 98 VPN account.
  • In the "Summary" Field, enter "VPN user request".
  • Click "Submit" at the bottom of the form, to submit your request.
    
    

  ITS Customer Support will notify you of your VPN ID and password.
  

4. Download the VPN Software


You'll be notified when your account is created and directed to the download site where the VPN client software is available. After filling out a brief questionnaire you'll be able to download the appropriate VPN client and installation instructions / documentation.

5. Read the VPN Frequently Asked Question webpage



6. Install and Configure Personal Firewall.

While not required, we strongly recommend VPN users install a personal firewall



For assistance or more information contact ITS Customer Support
itscs@its.ucsf.edu
(415)514-4100, option 2

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URL:http://its.ucsf.edu/information/network/vpn/nortel/vpn_faculty.jsp
Last Updated: Fri Jul 28 15:30:01 PDT 2006