The Engineering VPN service allows secure remote access to private internal Engineering network resources via public networks such as the Internet. Once a VPN connection has been established it is then possible for remote users to access facilities and services on the Engineering internal network in much the same way as machines directly connected to the Engineering Local Area Network (LAN).

In many cases full VPN access is not required in order to access a number of Engineering’s internal network resources and it is worth exploring some of the other techniques on offer for remote access before opting for a VPN solution.

Requesting access to the VPN Service

Who can use the service

• The service is available to all current Engineering staff and postgraduate students
• The service is not made available to undergraduate students and short-term visitors

Supported Operating Systems

The following Operating Systems are supported in conjunction with the Managed VPN Service:

• Windows 10 and 11
• Mac OS X 10.15 (Catalina), 11 (Big Sur) and 12 (Monterey)
• Ubuntu 18.04 and 20.04
• iOS
• Android

Note: In order to connect there is no requirement for additional VPN client software as the VPN connection configuration can be completed using the native VPN setup features available in the supported Operating Systems.

Applying for access

To apply for access to the VPN service the following request form should be completed and submitted for consideration, ensuring that the VPN option is selected for network connection type on the form:

• Request a VPN network connection

Note: All network connection requests are made with the understanding that the end user agrees to abide by:

• The network rules and terms and conditions
• General rules governing the use of computers in the Department

Security considerations

Since the security of the network as a whole may be compromised by a single system with poor security it is essential that any system connected by VPN is properly maintained and secured. In particular this includes ensuring that all available operating system and application software security patches are installed and, where available, anti-virus software is installed and kept up-to-date. Anti-virus software is required for all networked Windows and MacOS systems.

From a security perspective, it is particularly important to disconnect a VPN session if it is no longer required. An active VPN session provides access to internal otherwise restricted systems and services and particular care should be taken to ensure these are protected from unauthorised access.