The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is upgrading the Virtual Private Network to provide for additional security options. This will go into effect July 10.
VPN enables remote users to connect securely to UNL’s network as if they were physically on campus, allowing access to restricted services. Users will have the ability to select full tunnel, split tunnel or two-factor/full tunnel options, depending on security requirements.
For the first time, UNL will offer a full tunnel option, which routes all internet traffic through UNL’s domain and encrypts the connection between the user and UNL. This setting enables normal UNL access to library journals. A two-factor/full tunnel option is also available which requires DUO authentication to confirm the user’s identity. Split tunnel allows access to anything at UNL via VPN, but non-UNL traffic flows normally on an unencrypted connection.
The changeover will occur automatically for VPN clients. Users will merely need to click an approval to receive the update upon launching the client.
Both the new and the old VPNs will run for six months to ensure firewall rules can be reconfigured for the new system. On July 10, the new VPN will move to vpn.unl.edu and the old VPN will be accessed through vpn-old.unl.edu.
IT professionals are encouraged to test the new VPN to access their applications and servers prior to the launch.
