| What is a VPN? A virtual private network (VPN) is a private
network constructed across a public network such as the Internet. A VPN can be
made secure, even though it is using existing Internet connections to
carry data communication. Security measures involve encrypting data
before sending it across the Internet and decrypting the data at the
other end. Why has Murray State set this up? Murray State University recognized the need for
Faculty, Staff & Students to access university resources while
physically away from MSU and at insecure locations. MSU chose
OpenVPN for easy integration with our existing network and
ease of use for the end user. The OpenVPN solution has been
preconfigured for the end user by Information Systems to make your
setup as easy as possible. What about the Cisco VPN Client? As of June 1st, 2010, the Cisco VPN is no longer available. All
users are encouraged to uninstall the Cisco client then download and
install the new OpenVPN client and use it from this point forward. Who can use MSU’s VPN connection? Currently MSU’s VPN connection has been
restricted
to Faculty, Staff and Students (in select courses) with Murray
State University computers that run Windows XP, Vista & 7. How do I get started? Faculty and Staff - Faculty and Staff must complete the VPN Access Request Form and fax the form to the Information
Systems at (270) 809-3461. Once the form is processed, an
Information Systems
representative will provide further instructions. Students
- Students will receive instructions from their respective course
instructors with download and installation instructions. What operating systems are supported for the
connecting
to the VPN? Information Systems has prepared OpenVPN
installers
for Microsoft Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows
7 and Mac OS preconfigured for use
with MSU’s VPN connection.
(Note: While any of the above operating systems can
be used
to connect to your MSU computer, your MSU computer must run Windows XP,
Vista or 7.) What type of Internet connection is required to
connect
to the VPN system? Broadband access is required for MSU's VPN
connection. Where do I get the VPN software? Once access has been granted, use the links
below to
download the client and view installation instructions. NOTE: You must be approved for OpenVPN access and have an active MSUNET2K account to view the
pages below. Faculty and Staff
- Click here Students
- Click
here How can I add a server to the Student VPN for my class?
Faculty
must complete the Server Over VPN Access Form and fax the
form to the Information
Systems at (270) 809-3461. An
Information Systems
representative will notify you once the form is processed.
This form is only for making servers accessible through the VPN. Click here to download the server form. Where do I go if I
have
problems? Check the troubleshooting page to see if your
problem
is described there. If this does not resolve the issue, contact the MSU Helpdesk by phone at (270) 809-2346 or email at
helpdesk@murraystate.edu. |