Why can I not connect with my third-party VPN?

 

Lack of Support for Third-Party VPNs at the University

When using virtual private networks (VPNs) for accessing university resources, it's important to be aware that Technology Solutions does not provide support for third-party VPN applications. This article explains the implications of using third-party VPNs and recommends alternative solutions provided by the university.

Using Third-Party VPNs

Third-party VPNs are software applications that route your internet traffic through servers located in different geographical locations. This can alter the apparent location of your internet connection, making it appear as though you are accessing the internet from a different country or region.

If you choose to use a third-party VPN, please keep the following considerations in mind:

  1. Location Changes: When using a third-party VPN, your apparent internet location may change abruptly based on the VPN server's location. This can impact access to certain online services or resources that are geographically restricted.

  2. Connection Setup: Always connect to the third-party VPN before attempting to access any University resources. Ensure that the VPN connection remains active throughout your session to avoid disruptions.

University Recommended Solution

For accessing University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) resources securely from off-campus locations, Technology Solutions strongly recommends using the CISCO AnyConnect client VPN. Here's why:

  1. Official Support: The CISCO AnyConnect client VPN is officially supported by Technology Solutions. If you encounter any issues or require assistance, support resources are available to help troubleshoot and resolve problems.

  2. Free Availability: The CISCO AnyConnect client VPN is freely available from the WebStore, making it easily accessible to all UIC students, faculty, and staff.

  3. Secure Connection: The UIC VPN solution provides a secure connection to university networks, enabling access to resources that are typically restricted to on-campus use.

How to Access CISCO AnyConnect VPN

To utilize the CISCO AnyConnect VPN at UIC:

  1. Download: Visit the UIC WebStore to download and install the CISCO AnyConnect client VPN on your device.

  2. Setup: Follow the installation instructions provided with the software to set up the VPN connection.

  3. Connect: Once installed, launch the CISCO AnyConnect client and connect to the UIC VPN using your UIC NetID and password.

By using the recommended CISCO AnyConnect client VPN, you can ensure a reliable and supported method of accessing university resources securely from anywhere.

For additional assistance or questions related to VPN access at UIC, please contact Technology Solutions support for guidance.

Conclusion

While third-party VPNs may offer certain advantages, they are not officially supported for accessing UIC resources. To ensure a seamless and secure connection to university networks, it is advisable to use the CISCO AnyConnect client VPN provided by UIC's Technology Solutions. This approach guarantees access to restricted resources while benefiting from official support and guidance in case of any technical issues.

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