On July 18, a new “full tunnel” VPN configuration will be enabled for the U of G community, allowing for a secure, encrypted connection for all online activities when required.

What is VPN?

A virtual private network (VPN) provides a secure, encrypted internet connection, allowing users to safely send and receive data from anywhere.

What is changing?

Currently at U of G, VPN is used to provide secure and encrypted access to specific U of G systems (e.g., finance system, central file service, computers located on campus, etc.). This is called a “split tunnel” connection. As of July 18, users will be able to choose a “full tunnel” connection allowing them to access VPN to provide a secure, encrypted internet connection for all their online activities.

The full-tunnel option should be used in the following scenarios:

• It should allow staff, faculty and international students to access online resources while in countries where access may otherwise be unreliable.
• It will allow for a secure, encrypted connection for U of G users when using public (unsecure) WiFi (e.g., in retail locations, cafes, airports, etc.).
• It will provide an option for campus users needing to access cloud services that require traffic to come from an official University IP address due to access restrictions.

What do I need to know?

The full-tunnel connection may be slower than the split tunnel connection.

All internet traffic through the full tunnel will be protected by the University’s security infrastructure and is subject to the Acceptable Use Policy. This information will be provided to users once they select the “Full tunnel” option.

Starting July 18, when users sign in to the VPN through Cisco AnyConnect, they can access the full-tunnel option by:

1. On the VPN: Ready to Connect window, selecting either UofG VPN On-Campus Access or UofG VPN Off-Campus Access (depending on where you are).
2. Click Connect.
3. Select a group, either Split Tunnel or Full Tunnel.
4. Enter your U of G central login credentials.
5. Click OK.

Questions? Contact the CCS IT Help Centre for support.