A VPN (virtual private network) is a technology solution that allows you to securely connect to university based resources which wouldn't regularly be available from the internet. This connection to the university network is encrypted, and allows you to connect to campus resources “like you were on the campus network”. Using the VPN, you can access items such as windows file shares, restricted internal websites, and restricted internal applications from either your UMass Lowell-owned device or personal device, using the public internet.  

When do I need VPN?

If you already have access to an application or website through secure http (https), then chances are you DO NOT need a VPN connection. 

Some examples when a VPN connection IS NOT REQUIRED from off campus:

• SiS
• HR Direct
• BuyWays
• R25
• Finance
• Summit
• Office 365
• Outlook client
• Blackboard
• One Drive
• Skype for Business

If you connect to systems or services only available internally to the UMass Lowell network, then you need a VPN connection.

Some examples when a VPN connection IS REQUIRED from off campus:

• A research server that is restricted from the internet
• Some library applications
• Departmental file shares (X/Y drives)

First Time Users

1. Usage of the UMass Lowell VPN requires multi-factor authentication using Duo. If you are not currently enrolled in DUO for other applications such as HR Direct, please do so first by visiting the Multi-Factor Authentication website.
2. Before you can connect to the VPN, you must first install specific 'client software' on each system you intend to connect from the VPN. The installers for this software (Pulse Secure) are linked to below. It is very important to review the instructions for your operating system prior to installing the client software. Please contact the IT Service Desk at 978-934-4357 for further assistance.
3. Users requiring remote access via VPN shall adhere to the campus VPN Policy (IT-5-124).

For Windows-based computers:

• VPN Set-up Instructions (pdf)
• 64bit windows Pulse Secure client software
• 32bit windows Pulse Secure client software
• Using VPN with Duo (pdf)

For Apple macOS-based computers:

• VPN Set-up Instructions (pdf)
• Apple macOS Pulse Secure client software
• Using VPN with Duo (pdf)

For Linux-based computers:

• VPN Set-up Instructions (pdf)
• 64bit Ubuntu 'deb' version
• 32bit Ubuntu 'deb' version
• 64bit Centos/Fedora/RHEL 'rpm' version
• 32bit Centos/Fedora/RHEL/ 'rpm' version
• vpnCA file
• Using VPN with Duo (pdf)

For Mobile Devices and tablets:

• VPN Set-up Instructions (pdf)