VPN at Furman
What is the VPN Client?
The Virtual Private Network (VPN) Client allows users to connect to resources on Furman's network from off campus using various Internet Service Providers (ISPs). Because of security considerations, and due to the proliferation of worms and viruses which compromise or damage network connectivity, the Furman firewall is configured not to allow users to access network shares from off campus using external ISPs. In addition, the use of VPN affords secure connectivity to Furman staff who need to use campus administrative computing resources.
Who may use VPN?
- Furman faculty and staff may access campus network resources from off campus using VPN.
- Students living at The Vinings are also eligible to use VPN.
- Others requesting VPN access must be approved by the CIO.
Because Furman NetIDs must be declared as eligible by the network administrator in order for a VPN connection to be established, arrangements to use VPN must be made in advance. If you do not know if you are eligible to use VPN to access the campus network, you may call the Help Desk to find out if you will need to apply to use VPN.
What about First Class?
The use of FirstClass does NOT require the use of a VPN client. Individuals who require access to network shares such as G: Drives, and those who access the administrative server from off campus are those who should install and use VPN.
System requirements
While VPN will is available for all eligible users, personal computers need to meet the minimum system requirements to be able to use the VPN system. To find out of your machine meets the minimum system requirements, please call the Computer Help Desk at (865) 294-3277. You will need to be able to tell the Help Desk: What type of machine you have, how fast your machine is (CPU Speed) and how much memory your machine has.
How do I install VPN?
Contact the Help Desk at (864) 294-3277.