Use VPN for a Secure Connection
Northwestern’s VPN service allows students, faculty, and staff to access University resources securely while using non-Northwestern networks to connect to the internet. The VPN does this by encrypting the internet traffic between the computer/laptop/tablet and the campus network. The user’s traffic appears to originate from within the Northwestern network.
A VPN connection is an extension of the Northwestern Network and subject to the University's Appropriate Use of Electronic Resources Policy.
Important facts about VPN
- Requires the use of Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)
- 16-hour session timeout
- Traffic from your device to the campus network is encrypted
VPN Options
Any individual associated with Northwestern and with a NetID may use VPN. There are several VPN options.
General Use VPN – To securely access Northwestern resources when off- campus
For managed devices, your school or department will have automatically installed the GlobalProtect VPN on your University-owned device. No other action is required.
For unmanaged University computers or home computers, or to use the VPN on a phone or other mobile device, you will need to install the client yourself. Please visit the Northwestern IT Knowledge Base for VPN set-up and use instructions.
Custom VPN Group* – Limits certain resources to only specific users
Custom VPN Groups are for campus organizations that want access to specific resources or applications limited to a pre-defined set of users. This typically small set of users connect as a general VPN user with the VPN client on their device and are assigned a unique IP address from a group-specific block of addresses. Their traffic coming from the group IP block allows them access to the pre-defined resources and applications. These users also have access to all other applications or resources accessible using the General Use VPN.
Web-based VPN* – Limits users and resources
Some organizations on campus have a web-based VPN deployed which limits access of a defined group of users to only a defined group of resources. When these designated users log into the web-based VPN, they see bookmarks for the resources that are available to them. Access to these resources is given via the web app and does not require a separate VPN application to be installed on their devices. Web-based VPN Access Page.
*Custom VPN Groups and Web-based VPN requires Northwestern IT involvement. To make a request, please contact your local IT support. If you do not have local IT support staff for your area, please contact the IT Support Center.
Available to
Cost
N/A
How to Request Service
Students, faculty, and staff should follow the VPN setup instructions located in the IT Knowledge Base.
Support Resources