SIUE VPN - Remote Access Options and Selection Guide
Introduction to SIUE VPN Services
Virtual Private Network (VPN) grants authorized SIUE users the ability to access University systems and resources securely from off-campus locations. Information Technology Services (ITS) offers multiple VPN options to accommodate different devices and connection needs. All SIUE VPN options require Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for enhanced security.
Before You Begin
- Submit the Work From Home VPN Access Request form.
- Set up Microsoft Authenticator with app-based notifications as your default method (required for all VPN options). MFA Setup Instructions
- Wait for confirmation that your access has been granted before proceeding with installation.
Which VPN Should I Use?
| Your Device | Recommended VPN | What You Can Access | Setup Guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| SIUE Windows Laptop | FortiClient "Remote Clients" |
|
FortiClient Remote Clients Setup (Request via form: Request Form) |
| SIUE Mac Laptop | FortiClient "Work from Home" |
Note: Shared drives not available |
Work from Home VPN - Mac Setup |
| Personal Computer (Windows or Mac) |
FortiClient "Work from Home" |
Note: Shared drives not available |
Work from Home VPN - Windows Setup Work from Home VPN - Mac Setup |
| RDP Gateway (No VPN software needed) |
RDP Gateway - Windows Setup RDP Gateway - Mac Setup |
||
| ITS Staff Only | FortiClient "ITSVPN" |
|
Contact ITS for setup |
Understanding Your VPN Options
FortiClient "Remote Clients" VPN
This provides a comprehensive network connection similar to being physically present on campus. When connected, you have access to all resources you would typically have in your office.
- Best for: SIUE Windows laptops needing full campus resource access, including shared drives
- Key benefit: Only option that provides direct access to department shared drives
FortiClient "Work from Home" VPN
This provides limited network access designed primarily for remote connections to campus computers.
- Best for: SIUE Mac laptops and personal computers needing to connect to campus computers
- Key benefit: Compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems
RDP Gateway
This allows you to connect directly to your campus computer using Remote Desktop without installing VPN software.
- Best for: Users who only need to access their office computer
- Key benefit: Simpler setup with no additional VPN software required
- Limitation: Only provides access to your campus computer, not other network resources
Remote Access Method by Purpose
| What You Need to Access | Best Option | Alternative Options |
|---|---|---|
| Department Shared Drives | FortiClient "Remote Clients" on SIUE Windows laptop | Remote into a campus computer that has access to shared drives |
| Your Campus Windows Computer | RDP Gateway | FortiClient "Work from Home" with Remote Desktop |
| Your Campus Mac Computer | FortiClient "Work from Home" with Screen Sharing | None |
| Internal Websites | FortiClient "Remote Clients" (Windows) FortiClient "Work from Home" (Mac/Personal) |
Remote into a campus computer |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between "Work from Home" and "Remote Clients" VPN?
"Remote Clients" provides a comprehensive network connection similar to being on campus. "Work from Home" primarily allows remote connections to on-campus computers with limited access to other resources.
How can I access department shared drives from home?
If you have an SIUE Windows laptop, use FortiClient "Remote Clients" VPN. If using a personal computer or Mac, you'll need to remote into an on-campus computer that has access to the shared drives.
Which option provides the most complete access?
An SIUE Windows laptop with FortiClient "Remote Clients" VPN provides the most comprehensive access to campus resources.
Need Additional Support?
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact the ITS Help Desk:
- Call: (618) 650-5500
- Email: help@siue.edu
- Visit: Lovejoy Library Room 0005 during regular business hours.
This guide aims to provide useful information, but as technology changes, interfaces or steps might vary. Please use the Comment button to let us know if anything differs from your experience. Your feedback helps us keep this information accurate. Thank you!