VPN
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REVISION IN PROGRESS: This article contains useful information, but is being revised to reflect recent updates. Direct questions to TLT (tlt@winona.edu). |
Our VPN or virtual private network gives Winona State University Information Technology Services a secure way to provide employees access to specific systems and services that are normally only available from on campus. Cisco AnyConnect VPN is pre-installed on your WSU laptop and can be used to connect to the WSU network when you are off-campus. This software is available to employees and students.
WSU's VPN differs from commercial VPN solutions such as NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Private Internet Access VPN in that it does not offer advanced privacy for everyday browsing. Instead, WSU's VPN solution simply ensures a dedicated, secured, encrypted connection to the WSU network for access to work-based or class-based resources (such as network storage drives).
It is unnecessary to leave WSU VPN connected at all times unless you're actively performing work or class tasks while off campus.
What is Cisco AnyConnect VPN?
Using the Cisco AnyConnect VPN client software, you can connect a WSU laptop to the WSU network from off-campus. The data sent over our VPN is encrypted to preserve security. This connection enables the same network access you have while on-campus. This includes:
- Certain WSU-specific web applications that may not work from off-campus.
- Network storage drives (e.g., personal storage, class storage, departmental storage, "R drive," or "S drive" etc.)
How do I use Cisco AnyConnect VPN?
The Cisco AnyConnect VPN software is pre-installed on your WSU laptop. Look for the Cisco folder in your Windows Start Menu or macOS Applications folder to get started. The Cisco AnyConnect VPN app can be found there.
VPN is not usually necessary on desktop computers that live on campus in offices. If your WSU desktop computer is unable to access specific network resources, please contact WSU Tech Support.
Which VPN connection do I use?
The Cisco AnyConnect Mobility Client has a different VPN connection for students and one for employees. Type in wsutunnel.winona.edu if you are a student and ot.winona.edu if you are an employee. Employees will need to have Microsoft Authenticator also installed.