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The University of Â鶹´«Ã½

Cyber Security and VPN Services

VPN Connection Services

The University uses Cisco AnyConnect VPN software for VPN access.  This software allows you to connect to UÂ鶹´«Ã½’s network as if you were physically on campus, making access to restricted services possible.  The VPN software works in “split tunnel” mode, meaning you have access to UÂ鶹´«Ã½’s network via VPN, but any non-UÂ鶹´«Ã½ traffic flows normally through the Internet connection (e.g. web browsing, online email, etc.).

If you do not have Cisco AnyConnect software, it can be downloaded directly from the University's VPN service.  Contact the TSC Service Desk to obtain the weblink.

 

System Posturing Process for VPN Connections

Computers that are not managed by the Technology Solutions Center will undergo a process to check the security posture of the system prior to connecting to the University network.  This process looks for the following on your computer:

  • Verifies that Anti Virus/Anti Malware is installed and up to date
  • Checks patch levels of the operating system and whether it is up to date
  • Checks if a personal firewall is present and is turned on

If any of the above conditions are not present or met, you will requested to correct things before you can connect to the campus network.  Some recommendations for updating your system will be provided by the posturing service (getting patches, turning on the firewall, etc.)

 

Securing Your Home Environment

If and whenever possible, a LAN cable should be used as it provides a reliable connection with your home router.  For wireless, make sure your home Wi-Fi network setup is secure:

  • Ensure your Wi-Fi network is using encryption (WPA2, WPA3)
  • Make sure you have a strong password on your Wi-Fi SSID
  • Allow only those systems you trust to access your Wi-Fi network
  • Keep trusted systems updated with latest security patches and Antivirus signatures
  • Make sure all wireless IoT (Internet of Things) devices are also locked down with strong passwords

Consult with your Internet service provider if you are unsure whether this has been done.  Some reference links are below.

Shaw (1-888-472-2222):

Bell/MTS (204-225-5687):

 

Safe Practices

Being offsite means you do not have all the advanced protections provided by the campus network.  You must therefore remain vigilant when using your computer for general use and Internet access:

  • Keep your web browsing to work related activities
  • Always access sites that provide secure communication (HTTPS, SSH, FTPS, etc.)
  • Make sure to log out of online services when you are done – do not just close your browser
  • Refrain from doing any personal activities such as online banking and social media
  • Do not install programs/utilities you normally wouldn’t use at work
  • Do not allow other family members to use your system
  • Never perform work related or personal functions while on unsecured Wi-Fi networks (e.g. airports, coffee shops)
  • When staying at a hotel, ask the front desk if their Wi-Fi network is secure. If not, the above rule applies