Use new VPN for secure working
Monday, 06 April 2020
The new VPN solution implemented by our Digital Technology Services (DTS) colleagues is working reliably and has plenty of available capacity.
Titled ‘UoR Staff VPN’ in the Pulse Secure app on your laptop or computer, it allows many more colleagues to connect to the University network at the same time. It is also more secure, keeping your work and important documents safer.
The VPN allow you, when working away from our campuses, to access internal systems that require a connection to the University network.
To further enhance the security of the connections made to the network, DTS are removing access to the older solution – called ‘UoR Legacy VPN’ in the Pulse Secure app.
You are advised to use ‘UoR Staff VPN’ to access the University’s internal systems. In case of a problem, please contact Service Desk (dts@reading.ac.uk) or use the IT Self Service Portal in case of a problem.
Who can use the VPN?
All colleagues are able to make use of the VPN. However, only those who need to access systems that require a connection the University network need to use it. Most of the tools you use day to day do not require the VPN, such as your Email and Calendar, OneDrive, Teams and Office 365 apps. A full list of what systems require the VPN is available on DTS’ Remote Working page.
How do I get access?
DTS have provided two useful guides on connecting to the VPN:
- How to Install and Access the University VPN on personal/non-windows devices
- How to Install and Access the University VPN on University Laptops
Important: you will need to authenticate your connection
When using your University account to login to the VPN you will need to verify yourself using Multi Factor Authentication, either via the Microsoft Authenticator app or a phone line. Full details and guides can be found on the Remote Services Access page.