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Virtual private network (VPN)

A virtual private network (VPN) is a secure connection that allows your computer to access the University network when you are off campus. This means you can access restricted services that are normally only available when you’re on campus. 

A VPN connection lets you access: 

  • filestore: access files saved in your personal and shared filestores
  • print: send your work to print, ready for you to collect it on campus
  • restricted web apps: access applications which normally require you to be on campus to use them, eg MyView
  • terminal sessions: start SSH sessions to access machines on campus and remote desktop sessions to Windows machines 
  • licence servers: use software that requires access to the University's licence servers 
  • external services that require the user to be at York, eg journal websites.

Key features

  • You can connect to the VPN on desktop and mobile devices.
  • All your device traffic goes through the University VPN, ensuring secure, high-performance connectivity to both York services and other internet resources.
  • VPN sessions benefit from the University network’s enhanced security measures.

Access instructions

You can connect to the VPN using GlobalProtect software. 

  • GlobalProtect is installed on University managed laptops running Windows, so you’re ready to connect to VPN.
  • For other devices, you need to download and install GlobalProtect first. Find instructions for Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chromebook.

Log in with your York username and password. Duo two-factor authentication is required.


Available to staff and students

You can use this service on University-managed and personal devices with the VPN client installed.

App and web-based

Compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux and Chromebook. An internet connection is required.

Funded by the University

There isn’t a cost to you for standard use.

Additional information

Not all University services are available while using the VPN. This is because there’s a firewall between VPN users and campus.

If you would like a service to be made available for VPN users, you can submit a request. You can specify whether the service should be available to all VPN users or a specific group. 

Requests will receive an initial response within a working day but take up to 5 working days to become active.

To make a request, please contact IT Services.

Access instructions

You can connect to the VPN using GlobalProtect software. 

  • GlobalProtect is installed on University managed laptops running Windows, so you’re ready to connect to VPN.
  • For other devices, you need to download and install GlobalProtect first. Find instructions for Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chromebook.

Log in with your York username and password. Duo two-factor authentication is required.

Guides and help

How-to guides and set up

  • You may not be able to access resources local to you while connected to the VPN. This means if you’re on another campus or large network you may have to disconnect from the VPN to use local resources. You cannot connect to two VPNs at the same time.

Search all our guides and help

Contact for support

If you're experiencing technical issues and need advice, please contact IT Services.

Service commitments

The following policies apply to all IT services provided by the University.

Availability

Support

  • This service is managed by IT Services.
  • We are responsible for monitoring, identifying and fixing faults.
  • Support is available during our opening hours.

Standards

  • Our service performance and standards have been produced in consultation with our customers, and we monitor the delivery, performance and availability of facilities and services.

We appreciate feedback as it helps us review and continually improve our service.

Page last reviewed: 9 September 2024