Table of Contents
Hello Ospreys!
What is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a service that encrypts your internet connection, making it more secure. When you use a VPN, your data travels through a secure “tunnel,” making it difficult for third parties to intercept or monitor your online activities.
How to Get Started
The University of North Florida offers a VPN service to all students, staff, and faculty with the help of an application that’s easy to install and use, called FortiClient. To get started, you must be enrolled in two-factor authentication. Visit Enrolling in Two-Factor for step-by-step instructions on how to set up and use two-factor authentication, also known as “2FA”.
You’ll need to verify your identity using the Microsoft Authenticator app, usually via a phone notification.
- Download and install FortiClient.
- If you’re not logged automatically, you’ll need to use your UNF ID and password to access the page.
- Admin rights are required to install FortiClient on a UNF owned device. Contact the ITS HelpDesk 904-620-4357 for assistance.
- Install FortiClient using the setup wizard.
- Launch FortiClient once it’s been installed.
- For instructions specific to your device and working conditions, please review one of the articles listed below “Further Reading”.
Why Use a VPN?
There are several key reasons why students, staff, and faculty at The University of North Florida might benefit from using a VPN.
Enhanced Security
Using a VPN adds an extra layer of security to your internet connection. By encrypting your data, a VPN helps protect your personal information from being intercepted by hackers or other malicious actors. This is especially important when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are often unsecured and vulnerable to attacks.
Privacy Protection
A VPN allows you to browse the internet anonymously by masking your IP address. This means that your online activities cannot be easily traced back to you. Whether you’re conducting research, accessing sensitive information, or simply browsing the web, a VPN helps safeguard your privacy.
Access to Restricted Content
Some online content may be restricted based on your geographical location. By connecting to a VPN server in a different location, you can bypass these restrictions and access content that may otherwise be unavailable to you. This can be particularly useful for students, staff, and faculty who need to access research materials or educational resources that are not accessible in their current location.
Remote Work and Collaboration
With the increasing popularity of remote work and online collaboration tools, a VPN can play a vital role in ensuring secure and seamless access to work-related resources. By connecting to a VPN, you can securely access your work files, email, and other resources from anywhere, providing you with greater flexibility and productivity.
In short, a VPN is a versatile tool that offers enhanced security, privacy, and convenience for a variety of online activities. Whether you’re a student, a staff member, or a faculty at UNF, using a VPN can provide you with peace of mind and greater flexibility in how and where you complete work.