Q. What is the IIT VPN?

A. VPN (virtual private network) is a secure means of connecting your computer from a remote site (e.g., home) to the University network. The VPN service enables your home computer to appear as if you were directly connected to the IIT Network. VPN does not provide Internet connectivity.

Q. How does the VPN work?

A. Once you are connected to your Internet Service Provider (AOL, Comcast, SBC, etc.) you startup the IIT VPN service and login using your IIT email username and password. At this point a "virtual" network connection is established over the Internet between your computer and the IIT VPN server. The server provides an IIT address for the virtual connection and allows you to use systems and services that are only available on the IIT network.

Q. How do I get a VPN account?

A. VPN accounts will only be enabled upon request. To request an IIT VPN account, create an online request at http://support.iit.edu or send an email to the OTS Support Desk (supportdesk@iit.edu). Make sure your request includes your first and last name and your IIT affiliation (title and department).

Q. How do I use the VPN software on my home computer?

A. Once you receive your VPN account confirmation email from the OTS Support Desk you will need to do the following:

1. Ensure your personal computer is secure:
• Your computer should have up-to-date virus software. McAfee virus protection software is free to members of the IIT community. If you have not already installed McAfee, you can download it at https://login.iit.edu/download/. You will need your IIT email username and password.
• Ensure your Windows software is updated with service packs and security patches (http://www.windowsupdate.com).
2. Download and install the VPN client software provided in your account confirmation email from the OTS Support Desk.
3. Configure VPN software to connect to IIT, using supplied instructions.
4. Connect to the IIT VPN service using your IIT email username and password.

Q. What VPN client software is supported?

A. IIT is using the Cisco VPN client. No other clients or VPN technologies are supported at this time. Only client software that is distributed by the OTS Support Desk may be used to connect to the IIT VPN servers.

Q. How do I download the VPN software?

A. The VPN software will be provided by the OTS Support Desk after a request for VPN access has been granted. A link to the VPN software and installation instructions will be provided by the Support Desk when your account is set up.

Q. Can I still get to other Internet sites when I’m using the VPN?

A. No. The IIT VPN does not allow “split tunneling.” When you are connected to the IIT Network through the VPN you will not be able to access other Internet sites from your personal computer. When your VPN session ends you will be able to browse the Internet normally.