VIRTUAL PRIVATE NETWORK (VPN)
Boston University VPN (Virtual Private Network) servers provide you with a private channel or "tunnel" between your PC and the campus network. This page explains how to download our VPN client so that you can create and use these VPN tunnels.
How does a VPN protect me?
A VPN encrypts all transmissions between your PC and the VPN server, including login names and passwords. This encryption helps protect your information when you are reading e-mail, accessing a file server, using services protected behind a firewall, or using a wireless network.
Why would I use it?
Members of the Boston University community use VPN software primarily for two different reasons:
- To gain access to restricted resources on the Boston University campus network: The VPN assigns a virtual BU IP address to your computer so that you can access servers, MyPrint, departmental printers, FileMaker databases, Active Directory resources (such as Exchange servers) or other restricted resources when you are not directly connected to the BU network.
- To secure a wireless connection:
The VPN secures wireless transmissions that might otherwise be susceptible to eavesdropping. If you are connecting to the Boston University wireless network, you are required to use either 802.1x (recommended) or the VPN. You will see both of these options listed as different SSIDs. If you are connected to an open wireless network (as in a cafe, airport, etc.) you can also get an extra level of security by launching the VPN.
Who can use the VPN?
The vast majority of people we support have full access. Among others, the following users do not, by default, have access to the VPN. In some cases VPN access can be enabled by contacting the IT Front Office.
-
User classes without default VPN access
- Distance Education
- Alumni and Alumni Forwarding Accounts
What do I need to use the VPN?
You must have the VPN client software described below and an approved BU login and Kerberos password. Your account is approved only after you have shown your BU ID at one of the IT Help Center locations, or the Medical Campus Library. *If you have established an ACS account, you have already met this requirement.*
Download and install
VPN client software
| If your computer runs... | Go to this page: |
| Macintosh OS X on Intel Mac or PowerPC | Macintosh VPN client page |
| Windows 7, Windows Vista (32-bit), Windows XP, or Windows 2000 | Pre-configured Windows VPN client page |
| If you had trouble using the pre-configured version of the VPN (e.g. some Int'l Windows versions) | Unconfigured Windows VPN client |
| Windows 64-bit | There is no Cisco VPN client is available
for Windows Vista 64-bit. 64-bit wireless users should be able to use 802.1x instead.
Off-campus VPN users should try the AnyConnect client, or see other suggestions on the related page. |
| Windows 98 or Windows NT, or if you otherwise require an older client | Unconfigured Windows VPN client page (use version 4) |
| BU Linux | See BU
Linux site which says to type sudo vpnc-connect |
| Ubuntu Linux | These are unsupported instructions that are not maintained. However, they were written by a user and should be helpful. |
| The Eee PC | These are unsupported instructions that are not maintained. However, they were written by a user and should be helpful. |
| Handheld OS (PalmOS, iPhone, etc.) | See handheld device page |
| ON THE MEDICAL CAMPUS? The Cisco VPN client should work with either the BUMC profile or the BU vpn-oncampus profile on either campus. However, if you would like to set up the BUMC profile, please refer to the BUMC VPN download and installation instructions. | |
Support
After you review the pages below, please direct any questions to the IT Help Center.
- How to use BU Wireless
- Our VPN troubleshooting page
- Detailed Cisco client release notes
- BU Medical Campus IT including information on how to connect to the "Y" drive.