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VPN FAQs

What is VPN?

VPN is an abbreviation for Virtual Private Networking. A VPN connection is a secure, encrypted connection over a shared public network, typically the Internet, which simulates the behavior of a local area network (LAN) connection.

What is the benefit of using VPN?

While using a VPN connection, the remote computer 'looks' like it is directly connected to the TTUHSC network. Therefore, you can access many TTUHSC network resources (file shares, printers, etc.) when they are normally not accessible from the Internet. In addition, applications like Outlook operate much better when connected by VPN.

What does VPN cost?

TTUHSC VPN access using a VPN account is free for all current faculty, staff, and students.

How do I get a VPN account?

Submit the VPN account request form, and one will be set up for you within 1 business day. Set up instructions will be included with your account information.

What type of computer can use VPN?

TTUHSC VPN services are supported on the following operating systems:

How do I configure my computer for VPN?

Set up instructions can be accessed here.

I already have a PPP account in Lubbock, and it doesn't work after I requested a VPN account.

Information Technology is working toward using a single user name and password for all services, with a format of 'firstname.lastname'. As part of this process, VPN access and Lubbock PPP access are controlled through the same user name and password. If you had a PPP account with the old user name format, it was renamed to the 'firstname.lastname' format when your VPN request was processed. You will need to change your PPP user name and password to match your VPN user name and password.

What type of Internet connection do I need for VPN?

Any type of dial-up (PPP) or broadband (DSL, cable modem) Internet connection should work, as long as the connection originates from outside the TTUHSC network. For best performance, broadband access is recommended. Please check with your Internet Service Provider (ISP) to ensure VPN access is permitted.

I live outside Lubbock, is VPN still available?

Yes, As long as you have a valid Internet connection (see previous question), you can use VPN services from anywhere in the world.

How secure is VPN? Can someone read my email/access my data while it is transmitted over the Internet?

While the VPN connection is active, the TTUHSC VPN server utilizes 128-bit encryption for all data transmitted between the remote computer and the TTUHSC network. The probability of intercepting this data while in transit to TTUHSC and breaking the key is very, very small. However, data transmitted between the remote computer and non-TTUHSC sites on the Internet is not encrypted, so the usual precautions should be taken.

Are there any other hardware or software requirements to use VPN?

Yes, all computers that connect to the TTUHSC VPN server are required to have current anti-virus software installed, with the latest signature updates applied. TTUHSC provides free McAfee Virus Scan licenses for home use by students. This software can be downloaded at http://www.ttuhsc.edu/it/security/mcafee/. In addition, if you have a broadband connection, we recommend implementing a hardware or software firewall. The IT Security group (its@ttuhsc.edu) can provide recommendations on products that have been certified as compatible with TTUHSC network security policy.

Why isn't Apple Macintosh OS 9 supported?

The manufacturer of the VPN server does not offer a client for OS 9. However, the following third-party clients have been tested successfully, with limited support from TTUHSC IT:

Why isn't Windows 95 or Windows ME supported?

Windows 95 and Windows ME are not supported by Information Technology (see http://www.ttuhsc.edu/it/helpdesk/support.aspx for details). However, the setup instructions for Windows 98 should work. All employees and students are encouraged to upgrade to Windows 2000 or Windows XP if they have appropriate hardware.

Is VPN access available to someone who is not a TTUHSC employee or student?

No, VPN services are only available to current employees and students.

Why do I lose my VPN connection after 4 hours?

While a computer is connected to the VPN server, it is logically connected to both the internal TTUHSC network and the Internet. For security reasons, each VPN user should disconnect from the VPN server when access to the TTUHSC network is no longer required. To facilitate this process, the maximum connection time for a VPN connection is 4 hours.

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