Harvard FAS offers VPN (Virtual Private Network) software and connections to allow FAS affiliates remote access to the Harvard network.
Connections via VPN permits off-campus clients with FAS accounts to use any of the commercial software distributed by Harvard as well as access to FAS services that work exclusively on the Harvard network. FAS affiliates may also use their HUID and PIN to connect to VPN.
Visit the FAS IT Software Download page to get the download and instructions on installing and using the VPN.
What if I already have a Cisco VPN client installed?
Please contact the FAS IT Service Desk for assistance with installing and using the Harvard VPN if you have another organization's Cisco VPN client installed on your computer.
I have the VPN client installed - how do I connect?
Log on to the FAS network using your FAS account login information or Havard PIN and user info. FAS VPN is supported by both broadband and dial-up providers, although broadband is recommended as dial-up connections are usually very slow.
Is the data encrypted?
Installing the VPN client does not encrypt network traffic - the VPN client must be connected to the network. As the computer receives a Harvard FAS IP address, security protocols used by FAS IT treat the computer as if it were physically connected to the FAS Network. Data between a computer on a VPN and the FAS Network is encrypted and can be considered reasonably secure. Network traffic is encrypted between the computer and the Harvard FAS VPN gateway. VPN allows for secure wireless networking on the FAS Wireless Network.
Can I use VPN to register my arrival on campus?
No - the only service not permitted via VPN is registration.
Can I set up a server on my computer to offer VPN access?
Configuration of one's own NT server for VPN is not possible on the FAS Network - More Info