Marc’s Straight Talk: Accessing University Resources with VPN

Last week I wrote about configuring your laptop for off-campus use. This week we’ll discuss using your laptop to access University resources via our wireless network.

The University is currently transitioning to a two-tiered wireless network.

“Guest Access” is available for basic use and can give you access to web applications such as BroncoWeb, BroncoMail, Google Apps, Blackboard, etc.

“Authenticated Access” (aka Clean Access) requires you to log in with your BroncoWeb username and password, and grants access to additional resources like GroupWise, Novell and Microsoft logins, and VPN for web publishing.

To use VPN while on the wireless network, authenticate to Clean Access and look for the gold padlock icon on your desktop (if you don’t have the VPN client installed, call the Help Desk at 426-HELP and we’ll assist you). Double click the padlock icon. You should have two connections: BSUVPN_OnCampus and BSUVPN_OffCampus.

When using BSU wireless, choose BSUVPN_OnCampus.

When using home, airport or perhaps hotel locations, choose BSUVPN_OffCampus.

Use your Broncoweb username and password to log in to VPN. You will then notice a gold padlock in the System Tray down by your clock. You now have access to your needed campus network resources.

If you require access to your Novell network drive(s), you’ll need to log in to Novell. Right-click on the red ‘N’ down near your clock and choose Novell Login from the pop-up menu to log in to Novell.

In some unique cases there are some alternate VPN connections for special access to PeopleSoft, credit cards management software, or the Health and Wellness Center systems. Most people who use these services are already aware of the requirements.

If you have any problems authenticating to the VPN, please call the Help Desk at 426-HELP, or email us at helpdesk@boisestate.edu.