What is a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?

A virtual private network, or VPN, is an encrypted connection over the Internet from a device to a network. The encrypted connection helps ensure that sensitive data is safely transmi tted. It prevents unauthorized people from eavesdropping on the traffic and allows the user to conduct work remotely.

– Source "What Is a VPN? - Virtual Private Network", Cicso

What services are available via VPN?

The following services are available to all VPN users

Internet access
Remote desktop services
CNU File Share Drive (Isilon)
Banner
Cascade
Library archive server
Mitel Connect (VoIP Phone)

How do I apply for VPN Access?

Supervisors must use the Employee Resource System (ERS) to request that VPN resources be provisioned for the user. Information regarding ERS submissions can be found here. The IT professional that receives this request will then place a ticket on the supervisor and user’s behalf via Helpspot.

Please note: PDF forms or electronic signature requests for VPN access not initiated directly by ITS must be resubmitted through the approved process. Requests submitted by any other means will be rejected.

Users must complete the mandatory annual Security Awareness Training prior to receiving VPN access. Requests will not be approved until training has been completed.

During completion of the request, IT Services will begin a digital signature process through Docusign.

VPN and Multi-Factor Authentication

Connecting to the VPN requires the usage of Multi-Factor Authentication. See Multi-Factor Authentication for more information.

Installing the GlobalProtect VPN Software

How you install the software depends on if this is a University owned device or your personal device.

CNU-Managed Devices

If this is a CNU-managed device, you can find GlobalProtect VPN in the Company Portal. On Mac computers, this service is labeled as Self Service; on PCs the service is labeled as Company Portal.

Upon opening the portal, locate the application labeled GlobalProtect VPN. Either click on the Install button immediately present (Mac), or click into the application details, then click Install (PC).

The portal will then install the VPN service on your computer.

Personal Devices

On a personal device, go to the VPN Client Download Page.

If you’re on a Windows computer, select “Download Windows 64 bit GlobalProtect agent”.

On a Mac, click “Download Mac 32/64 bit GlobalProtect agent”.

Once you’ve opened the installer, simply click Next when prompted and the GlobalProtect client will be installed. You may need to sign in to your computer with your computer’s password to install it.

Connecting to VPN

Once you’ve installed the VPN client, it should go into your system tray automatically. Click on the globe icon. This should be in the system tray on PC computers, or in the task bar at the top of the computer in Macs.

After a splash page, you’ll be asked to enter a portal. Enter “gpvpn.cnu.edu” (without the quotes).

Click Connect and a window will pop up with your normal CNU sign-in page.

Sign in, and you will be connected to the VPN. Keep in mind that your computer will function as if it was on campus; you will not be able to use any printers or other devices on your home network.

Disconnecting from VPN

To disconnect from the VPN, click on the globe icon.

Then, click Disconnect.

VPN (Virtual Private Network) at CNU