Home | Services A–Z | Help & Tutorials
You Are Here: Home > Internet & Web > Network & Internet > Virtual Private Network

Virtual Private Network

Communications Network Services (CNS) offers Virtual Private Network (VPN) remote access as a bundled service with the Virginia Tech Wireless Network Service (http://wireless.cns.vt.edu) or the Virginia Tech Modem Pool (http://www.cns.vt.edu/html/data/vtmp/index.html). To be eligible for the VPN service, you must be subscribed to either of these services. VPN provides you with an IP address as if you are on-campus, providing access to campus services that are restricted from off-campus. VPN also provides some encryption, and it can be used as an alternate means to log on to the campus Wireless LAN.

Those interested in beta-testing VPN developments may subscribe to vpn-test@listserv.vt.edu for discussion and reporting of development issues. For instructions on how to subscribe, go to Subscribing to a LISTSERV (http://www.answers.vt.edu/ask4help/ad_min/vtkb181.htm).

Configuration Instructions

Once you have subscribed to either the wireless service or modem pool, choose the the appropriate link below to configure your system for remote access the network. How do you know whether to use the Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP) method or Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP)? Most people will prefer to use PPTP, as it is easiest to configure and works with most residential routers. Some prefer L2TP because its encryption is stronger.

Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP)

Before you can use the VPN service via PPTP, you must set up a password, otherwise known as a passphrase as your authentication credential for the VPN service by referring to Setting Your Remote Passphrase. For more information about your Remote Access ID and passphrase, see Remote Access ID.

Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP)

Using VPN via L2TP connection currently requires using your PID and password for authentication. In the future, you will be required to use a Remote Access ID and passphrase.

Support

We hope that connecting to and using VPN will be a problem-free experience. However, difficulties occasionally arise. A staff of trained IT professionals is available to help you resolve any network problems you might experience. Contact 4Help twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week by using the Help Request Form or by calling (540) 231-HELP (4357).

0
VPN Access Tasks
Registration:
Set Your Passphrase
(PPTP only)
Support:
Contact 4Help using the Help Request Form or by calling (540) 231-HELP (4357)
    

 

Last updated on August 9, 2005
Request Help | Site Feedback | Disclaimer | Privacy Statement