Information Services

Using the VPN service

Information to help you setup and connect to the University VPN Service.

Registering for the VPN Service

You must first register to use the VPN Service, if you haven't already you can register here : VPN Registration

You can also reset your VPN password using the above link.

VPN Configuration Options

There are two options available when configuring a VPN connection, the recommended SSL(Secure Sockets Layer) protocol or IPSec (IP Security). Both options provide a secure tunnel but the SSL is generally more reliable and works well if you have a less than optimum connection (poor Wi-Fi or broadband connection). SSL also works well in places like hotels or cafes where the Wi-Fi may be restricted and would block an IPSec connection, if you can access a secure web page (https) then the SSL VPN should work. SSL can also be useful for less technical users as the bulk of the configuration is handled by the installation of the VPN application or package.  If you install the VPN client then you will be able to configure two connections, one SSL and one IPSec , then select the best option to connect with depending on where you are connecting from.

SSL VPN access

SSL VPN access is set up through a downloaded client application. The client uses the same protocols as are used for secure webpages and therefore is less likely to be blocked by the firewalls of remote ISPs. It is also less likely to suffer from disconnections caused by poor network performance.

VPN service - VPN@Ed Configuration Guides
Windows -How to configure VPN@Ed
Mac - How to configure VPN@Ed
Apple iOS - How to configure VPN@Ed
Linux (Ubuntu) - How to Configure VPN@Ed
Android - How to configure VPN@Ed

 

Built-in VPN clients

Although the University recommends the SSL VPN using the client provided by FortiNet, many devices also have a built-in VPN client that you can use to connect. In-built VPN clients are only able to connect to the VPN using the IPSec protocol, if you need the SSL VPN then you must install the VPN client.

Note:

The IPSec VPN has a limitation where only one Windows device can connect using the native OS (built in) client per home network/broadband. This means if you try to connect multiple Windows devices using the Windows VPN in-built client from one home network/broadband connection, then when you try to connect the second Windows device, the first device will be disconnected. Devices with other operating systems are not affected. If you need to connect multiple Windows devices from a single broadband connection then you should install the FortiClient VPN application and configure a SSL connection on each device.

Android (secured)

iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch (secured)

Linux (Ubuntu) (secured)

macOS (secured)

Windows 7 (secured)

Windows 8 (secured)

Windows 8.1 (secured)

Windows 10+11 (secured)

SDX Supported Desktop (secured)

 

Need any help?

VPN Troubleshooting Guide