Your Remote Access ID

Your Remote Access ID is used to log on to the Virginia Tech network using a remote access service such as the Virtual Private Network (VPN). Your user name associated with your Remote Access ID is the same as your PID and Hokies ID user names, but has a different authentication method. The Remote Access ID uses the Challenge Handshake Authentication Protocol (CHAP). With CHAP you create what we refer to as a passphrase (sometimes called CHAP secret) to distinguish its function from that of a password.

Currently, you must use your Remote Access ID and passphrase for a VPN PPTP connection; however, there are plans to offer this method of authentication for other Virginia Tech remote access services, such as modem or VPN L2TP connections, in the future. For more information on VPN, see the Virtual Private Network page.

Establishing Your Remote Access ID

To be eligible to use the VPN service, you must establish your user name on the network system by first subscribing to either the Virginia Tech Wireless Network Service (http://wireless.cns.vt.edu) or the Virginia Tech Modem Pool (http://www.cns.vt.edu/data_VTMP.html) service. After you are subscribed to one of those services, create your passphrase by referring to Setting Your Remote Access Passphrase For VPN(http://answers.vt.edu/kb/entry/2846/).

For tips on creating a passphrase, please review Creating Strong Passwords. Also, be sure to read and follow the Acceptable Use of Information Systems at Virginia Tech.

Changing Your Passphrase

To change your remote access passphrase, reset it by following the instructions for Setting Your Remote Access Passphrase For VPN.

Further Assistance

If you have any questions or problems gaining access to or using VPN, try searching answers.vt.edu or contact 4Help by using the Help Request Form (http://4help.vt.edu) or by calling (540) 231-HELP (4357).