Virtual Private Networks (VPN) at UCSD
Learn about UC San Diego's expanded virtual private network (VPN) service, which lets you create protected connections to UCSD's network from remote locations.
The UC San Diego (UCSD) VPN creates a virtual private connection to access trusted resources from non-campus networks such as your home network, airport wireless networks, mobile hotspots, and others. By connecting to the VPN with your UCSD username and password, your computer receives an IP address within the UCSD network, allowing access to resources that are not directly accessible from the internet.
For resources and applications that are accessible via the internet and secured with SSO, the UCSD VPN is not required.
Services that require VPN
- Shared Network Drives
- Remote Desktop to computers or VMs
- Logistics Portal
- TN3270 (IFIS/ISIS)
- Library resources: With VPN or OpenAthens
- Campus CMS web system and staging preview links (2-Step Secured - allthruucsd)
- Canvas does not require VPN but is recommended if connecting outside the U.S.
- AccessLink
- TechWiki
- Some department-specific applications
Two-step login is required for VPN connections. Learn more about VPN and two-step login.
Separate instructions for UC Health
Instructions for UC San Diego Health and Health Science VPN users can be found at Pulse: mcvpn.ucsd.edu (login).VPN Connection Instructions
Find instructions about how to connect through VPN on the Support Portal.
Follow these instructions to Change your AD Password.
VPN Pools
- The VPN service offers the ability to create department-specific pools, which can be used to control access to departmental resources. Contact your IT support staff for additional information on accessing or using pools for your department. If you do not have IT support staff, contact the ITS Service Desk.
- To access a VPN pool, when logging in to the VPN, enter your username followed by "@" the pool name. For example, to access the ITS pool, enter "username@ITS".
For additional technical info on the VPN service, see the VPN article on Collab (login).
VPN FAQ
Does the VPN provide an added layer of security?
- Using the UCSD VPN helps protect against computer data transmission interception, which is particularly useful when a user is attached to public or insecure access points. It also helps ensure only authorized users can access campus networks.
- However, while a VPN is a valuable tool for enhancing online privacy and security by encrypting traffic and masking your IP address, it should not be considered a foolproof solution for all cyber threats.
- Even when accessing the VPN, your device can still be susceptible to viruses, malware, phishing attacks, and malicious websites – similar to when you are connected to the Internet without using the VPN.
- A comprehensive cybersecurity strategy should include a combination of measures like strong passwords, antivirus software, and safe browsing habits, in addition to using a reputable VPN service.
- For more information on how to increase your cybersecurity awareness and keep your device secure, please visit Cybersecurity Awareness.
Does connecting to the VPN reduce internet speeds?
Connecting to the UCSD VPN may slightly increase network latency and reduce network speeds, but generally not enough to produce a discernible difference.
Is the UCSD VPN the same as personal VPNs, such as NordVPN or ProtonVPN?
- The UCSD VPN is similar to personal VPNs insofar that the UCSD VPN makes your internet traffic appear to come from a UCSD IP Address instead of your computer's local IP Address. However, unlike personal VPNs, you do not have an option to select or switch "regions", and your local IP address is not hidden from UCSD. Similarly, unlike personal VPNs, the UCSD VPN allows you to access UCSD resources that would otherwise be inaccessible over the public internet.
- Any copyright violations made from a device connected to the VPN with your UCSD credentials can be traced to you and any related notifications, warnings, and/or legal repercussions are still applicable and enforceable.
- For more information about copyright violations, please visit University Policies Concerning File Sharing.