VPN Service Transition Overview
Welcome to the VPN Transition web page. Here you can find information to both prepare you for the transition to the GlobalProtect VPN service and guide you through the steps to use it successfully.
What is Changing
Beginning April 1, 2020, GlobalProtect will replace three existing VPN services—built-in native VPN clients, Cisco AnyConnect, and Pulse Secure SSL VPN. This change will:
- Improve integration with existing security tools used by Northwestern IT
- Add an additional layer of security by incorporating Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) via Duo
- Streamline resources and improve user experience by replacing three existing VPN services with one service
Please note: this change does not impact the web proxy www.vpn.northwestern.edu employed by specific user groups. Additionally, Feinberg Native VPN users are not currently affected by this change.
What to Expect
Northwestern IT has partnered with local IT support in schools and departments to assist in notifying students, faculty, and staff about the availability of the new VPN service and to encourage its use when connecting to the internet from off-campus.- GlobalProtect may initially be installed alongside the existing VPNs. However, only one VPN service can be used at any one time.
- While all other VPN services are available until March 31, 2020, we recommend you begin using GlobalProtect now when connecting to University services and the internet from off-campus.
- On April 1, 2020, the legacy VPN services will be retired and no longer available.
Important Dates
- November and December 2019 – School/department early adoption
- January 2020 – GlobalProtect available to the University community
- April 1, 2020 – GlobalProtect and Web VPN (formerly SSLVPN) are the only VPN services for the University. All legacy VPN Services are retired and no longer available
How to Prepare
Using Multi-factor Authentication
- You will need to use Multi-factor Authentication (Duo) to access GlobalProtect. Northwestern IT recommends using the Duo app to receive push notifications.
- To set up the Duo app or to register for the first time, visit Multi-factor Authentication at Northwestern
Download and Install
- For managed devices, your school or department will install the new client automatically.
- For unmanaged University computers or home computers, or to use the VPN on a phone or other mobile device, please visit the Northwestern IT Knowledge Base for VPN set-up instructions.
- Questions about installing GlobalProtect can be directed to your local IT support or the Northwestern IT Support Center.
Connect From Off-Campus
- Once you are using the new, GlobalProtect VPN, no further action is necessary on your part.
Support
- If you experience issues accessing University services or resources using GlobalProtect VPN, please contact your school or department IT support.
- Students, faculty, staff, and affiliates not supported directly by a school or department should contact the IT Support Center by email at consultant@northwestern.edu or by phone at 847-491-4357 (1-HELP).
Resources
Last Updated: 28 January 2020
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