Virtual Private Networking (VPN) software creates an encrypted connection between your off-campus computer and the campus network. Members of the university community can use VPN software to connect securely to the campus network from off-campus (e.g., to access some campus servers). Pulse Secure VPN software is available to members of the university community at no cost from the Supported Software & Downloads page.
Note: These instructions are for connecting to the UMASS VPN realm. If you need to connect to a departmental realm, please contact your department's IT professional.
Step 1: Obtain & Install Pulse Secure VPN Software
Please consult with the IT professional in your department before making changes to your University-owned computer.
- Open the Pulse Secure VPN Client software page. From the Download box (on right), click the Pulse Secure VPN Client file (32-bit or 64-bit). The Web Login screen will appear.
- In the Web Login screen, enter your NetID and NetID password. The Pulse Secure Installer will automatically download.
- Find the Pulse Secure Installer file in your Downloads folder and double-click the file to install. The Pulse Secure Installer will open.
- Follow the steps in the installer. You may be prompted to enter your computer's Administrator name and password.
Step 2: Connect to VPN
- To open Pulse Secure:
Windows 7: connect to VPN by going to Start > All Programs > Juniper Networks > Pulse Secure.
Windows 8: connect to VPN by going to Start screen > Pulse Secure.
The Pulse Secure window will appear. - In the Pulse Secure window, click the plus sign (+) next to Connections to add a new connection. The Add Connection window will open.
- In the Add Connection window:
- In the Type drop-down, make sure Policy Secure (UAC) or Connect Secure (VPN) is selected.
- In the Name field, enter a name for this VPN connection.
- In the Server URL field, enter sslvpn.umass.edu.
- Click Add. You will return to the Pulse Secure window.
- Next to your new VPN connection, click Connect. The Connect to: Pulse Secure screen will appear.
- In the Connect to: Pulse Secure screen, select UMASS. Click Connect. The Sign in screen will appear.
- In the Sign in screen:
- In the User name field, enter your NetID.
- In the Password field, enter your NetID password.
- Click Connect. You will return to the Pulse Secure window.
- To end your VPN session, click Disconnect.