Virtual Private Network

Introduction

Many Open University computer resources are protected by a firewall. The most flexible way to access computers behind the firewall from the external network is via a virtual private network (VPN). Client VPN software can link computers on an external network into the OU network through a VPN server. All traffic going between the client and server is encrypted so that unauthorised people on the external network cannot read it. Staff and full-time research students connected to the VPN server can access internal and external network resources as though they were using a computer on the OU network. The VPN is designed for when they are away from the OU but need to access internal network resources such as file servers. It is only suitable for home and other locations where there is freedom to load software. Some institutions may prevent visitors from installing it. Users who cannot install VPN software, or use SSH, will not normally be able to access the OU internal network. One exception to this is the Intranet much of which is accessible remotely by inputting username and password as requested.

Getting started

To use the VPN you will need to get a 'SecurID' token and install the correct client software for your computer.

• Official request form for SecurID token
• Client software and documentation for Windows and OSX
• Cisco client documentation for Windows, OSX, Linux and Solaris
• Mac OS users can obtain a Netlock client from AACS

Further Informatics pages

• Home
• Open University proxy settings
• Phoenix and its proxy settings

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