Summary
Virtual Private Network (VPN) is available to provide remote access to specific resources typically only available while on campus. Some of the items that require VPN include network shares, or licensing, and database servers. VPN is used in conjunction with Apps Anywhere for certain published applications that require access to these resources and should be launched prior to opening these applications.
Audience
VPN is available to all students and faculty. However it is only require for certain applications that need to communicate directly with College systems. Examples where VPN is required include, Autocad and related products used in the various programs. ACL used in the Law Clerk program. Click the Apps Anywhere “More Info” button on any application to identify if VPN is required to run that application.
NOTE: if you are having issues with any Niagara College remote access tools, it is recommended that you contact the ITS Service Desk for assistance at http://its.niagaracollege.ca
(For students and faculty connecting to the College network using their own computers that have not been issued by Niagara College)
(Laptop Program Guide is for students and faculty who have been issued a laptop from Niagara College.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to use VPN?
A: VPN is available to all students and faculty, only specific applications require VPN, however it can be used with any application published on Apps Anywhere. To confirm if an application requires VPN, click on the “More Info” button for the application.
Q: Will using VPN cause issues if I am playing games, or surfing the web?
A: There is no specific reason why you cannot run VPN at all times, however it could impact certain games or no College related activities so you may want to enabled only when needed
Q: Why am I getting an error message when trying to launch certain applications? The message I see says that “wcsvp1234” server is not available.
A: This error message is an indication that the software you are trying to use requires VPN, you should close the app, launch VPN, and then start the application again.
Q: I am having issues installing or connecting to VPN, what can I do?
A: For assistance with VPN please contact the ITS Service Desk at http://its.niagaracollege.ca.