Steps for First Time Connection to the VPN

Summary

Learn how to download the VPN connection agent and connect to the VPN.

Body

All students, staff and faculty have been granted base access to the VPN.
NOTE: If you are currently connected to the University wireless (eduroam) or wired network you DO NOT need to connect to the VPN prior to connecting to any remote resources.

To connect to the VPN for the first time you will need to download a connection agent and complete the steps below. You only need to complete this process once.

If you have already set up your VPN connection please refer to the instructions for creating subsequent VPN connections.

A VPN connection can be established on both a Windows or Mac computer. The instructions below were created on a Windows computer, however the process for both operating systems is similar.

For users connecting via an iOS device please refer to the Steps for First Time Connection to the VPN - iOS article.

NOTE: If you are utilizing the VPN to remotely connect to your office computer, the VPN should be set up on your home computer not your office computer.

First Time VPN Connection Steps

If you are installing the Global Protect Client for the VPN on a University owned computer that has Software Center (Windows) or Self Service (Mac) you can install the Global Protect Client utilizing the following instructions then proceed to Step 9, otherwise proceed as normal.
- How to Install Software Using the Microsoft Software Center
- Installing Software Using Jamf Self Service
To access the VPN, go to https://vpn.unr.edu and log in with your NetID in the form of NetID@unr.edu (Note: Students should also use NetID@unr.edu) and your NetID password.
Logging into the VPN now requires MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) via Microsoft Azure. If you have an active employee University email account you will likely already set up an MFA method which will be used to authenticate here.

However, if you have not yet set up a multi-factor authentication method you will need to do so. To do this, please visit the Managing your Multi-Factor Authentication Set-up Knowledge Base article.
The VPN requires you to download a connection agent. After logging in select the option based on the operating system you are currently using.
Note: Most Windows users should install the 64 bit version.
Find the file in your downloads folder and run it.
NOTE: You must have administrative rights on your computer to complete this install.
During the installation process, accept all of the defaults as you click Next through the options.
You may receive a warning asking you to verify the installation of the program. Click Yes.
Once you have installed the software, click Close on the installation program The VPN connection client should launch automatically. If it does not, run GlobalProtect Agent from your list of available programs.
A small window above your system tray will appear, click on the Get Started button then in the Portal section enter vpn.unr.edu. Click Connect.
You may be re-directed to a browser to reauthenticate, if so, once again sign in with your NetID@unr.edu, NetID password, and MFA method.
If connected correctly, the window will show Connected in large lettering. You will see a globe in your system tray, and when you hover the mouse over it, it will say Connected.