UIUCnet Wireless

2. Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) client

For access to facilities not available through QuickConnect, you’ll need to use a Virtual Private Networking (VPN) client. VPN systems are used to create a secure connection between one computer and another computer or network. When you have a VPN connection established, it's like you have a personal network cable running from your computer to an on-campus location, regardless of where you are or whether you're using physical cables at all.

The VPN system is both more complex and more powerful than the simple web-based UIUCnet QuickConnect system that UIUCnet Wireless and Walkup users can use as an alternative. Off-campus users cannot access QuickConnect and therefore need the VPN functionality to access UIUCnet as an authenticated and secured member of the community.

In order to get started using the VPN system to secure your network communications, you'll need to install software (referred to as a VPN client) on your computer, which can be downloaded for your operating system at no charge.

Related Links:
Downloading & Installing VPN Client Software