Website Contact:
Network Engineering & Technology
George Mason University
Thompson Hall, Mailstop 1B5
4400 University Dr.
Fairfax VA, 2030-4444

Phone: (703) 993-9045
Fax: (703) 993-3505

Page Updated: August 20, 2007

What is a VPN?

A virtual private network (VPN) is a network that uses a public telecommunication infrastructure, such as the Internet, to provide remote offices or individual users with secure access to their organization's network.  There are two types of VPN, IPSec (Internet Protocol Security) and SSL (Secure Socket Layer).

What is SSL?

Secure Socket Layer (SSL) refers to the standard method for encryption and authentication on the Internet. This added security provides you with protection against having your password stolen on an insecure connection.

What is SSL VPN?

An SSL VPN is a form of VPN that can be used with a standard Web browser. In contrast to the traditional IPSec VPN, an SSL VPN does not require the installation of specialized client software on end users' computers.

Why do I need VPN?

There are security policies like the “Protect and Serve” that only allows access to most of GMU resource from on-campus only.  The VPN provides secure, off-campus access to these resources.

How do I get a VPN account?

Complete and fax the request form found at http://telecomadmin.gmu.edu/Telework/telework.htm to (703) 993-3541.

How do I check the status of my request?

Please contact ITU Support at (703) 993-8870 to find out about the status of your VPN account.

How do I access SSL VPN?

Open a web browser such as Mozilla Firefox or MS Internet Explorer and go to https://sslvpn01.gmu.edu/telework.  Please sign in with your MEMO credentials.

Do I need to install anything?

During the login process, there may be some components that will be downloaded and installed automatically such as Host Checker and Cache Cleaner.  Also, Network Connect will be installed, depending on use.

What type of Internet connections work with VPN?

High-speed Internet access is required to use SSL VPN such as cable modem or DSL.

Can others see my traffic?

No, the traffic is encrypted.  SSL is a protocol for managing the security of message transmission on the Internet. SSL is included as part of both the Microsoft and Mozilla browsers and employs a public-and-private key encryption system.

Can I use VPN from my home network?

Yes, as long as you have broadband connection or high-speed Internet access, you can use VPN from your home network.  You will also be able to access local resources in your home network such as printers if you have it installed.

Can I use my home computer?

You can use any web browser on your home computer to access VPN.  However, depending on the type of access and/or type of data accessed, you may need to acquire a GMU assigned computer.  Access to highly-sensitive data such as Banner requires equipment from GMU.

Can I do the same work from home as if I'm in the office?

VPN will allow you to access GMU resources and your office computer if necessary so that you can perform the same work as if you are in the office.  Once connected through VPN, Remote Desktop can be used to access your office computer remotely.

What is RDP?

The Remote Desktop Protocol allows Microsoft Operating Systems to communicate with other Windows-based terminal server across the network. 

My office computer is on DHCP so my IP address will keep changing.  How will I be able to connect?

You can connect to your office computer by using the computer name since that will not change.  Dynamic DNS provides automatic mapping of your computer name to an IP address even if it changes.

Can I use my wireless network?

Use of wireless networks is not recommended due to security risks and potential performance issues.

What operating systems are supported?

Currently, MS Windows XP Professional and Mac OS X are supported.  We are working towards providing Linux support in the future.

What Java version do I need?  How do I tell what version I have?

You can go to http://www.java.com/en/download/installed.jsp and click on “Verify Installation.”  It will detect the version of Java installed on your computer.  The version number should be 1.5.0.7.  If you do not have the latest version, you can download it from the site and follow the directions to install.

What if I need help?

Please contact ITU Support at (703) 993-8870.