Remote Connections and VPN
Access your Ursinus drives from off campus.
The Ursinus VPN (Virtual Private Network)
What is “VPN”?
To use and access certain software or resources on the Ursinus College network from off campus, you will need to connect to the Ursinus VPN. Connecting through the VPN provides a connection that mirrors the connection you would have as if you were on campus.
Examples of resources requiring connection to the VPN from off campus:
- The Ursinus shared drive – the “S” drive.
- Colleague UI
- Mitel Connect Client
Example of resources that DO NOT require connecting to the VPN from off campus:
- Ursinus email – Microsoft Outlook
- Canvas
- Microsoft Office 365
The VPN can only be used on Windows and Macintosh computers. The VPN cannot be used on mobile devices such as phones, iPads and Android tablets.
The VPN requires Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
What is multi-factor authentication?
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a login or credential verification practice that adds an extra layer of protection on top of your user name and password. With MFA, when you sign in, you will be prompted for your user name and password, the first factor, and then another prompt for authentication communicated through your MFA device, the second factor. The MFA device most often is a personal cell phone or email.
When will I be prompted to use it?
When you sign in to some Ursinus resources from off-campus and periodically when you sign in to some resources on campus. For example, using VPN or accessing email from certain locations.