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The new VPN solution for Missouri State University is the Passport system, which can by found at http://Passport.MissouriState.edu. This system can not be accessed from on campus nor is it required from on campus. For more information about the VPN and links to setup guides, please read on.

Attention Linux Users: These VPN solutions will not work on Linux. Go here to connect to MSU's VPN with an alternative open source solution.


Passport - the New VPN Solution for Missouri State University

Networking Services has implemented Cisco System's AnyConnect VPN software that supports the most common platforms and 64-bit operating systems.  At Missouri State, this VPN service has been dubbed "Passport" after the web page used to access it.  The software is very easy to install – simply go to https://passport.missouristate.edu.  The page will start the software download, installation, sign on process, and even perform subsequent client upgrades as they become available.  However, we do have detailed installation guides available.  Look for your particular setup in the list below for installation instructions:

The older Cisco Systems IPSEC VPN Client is still available, but not recommended for new users. This client does not support 64-bit operating systems and is more difficult to install, use, and upgrade.

The Passport website cannot be reached from an on-campus internet connection.

People connecting to the Passport VPN using an AT&T AirCard will need to make some configuration changes for the VPN to work.

What is a VPN?

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. The name stems from the concept that if a user's network is intended to be a totally private network (example - from your home to the university), there would be no need for concern with respect to possible problems arising out of persons outside the network being able to intercept your valuable/confidential data. This would be possible because of the entirety of privacy, i.e. without any shared connections or possible interception points.

The purpose of VPN is accomplished by encrypting the data before it leaves your computer and decrypting it once it safely arrives at the target destination and vice versa is done for the reply. In this way, private data remains private and sensitive data remains secure. To aid in the insurance of the privacy of Missouri State University students, staff, and faculty, many resources can only be accessed off campus via the associated VPN.

Export Restrictions 

Due to the fact that it employs encryption technologies, there may be restrictions limiting locations where VPN may be legally operated. The governments of some countries do not allow people the liberty of being able to withhold information from their resources, therefore making it illegal to use such programs in these regions. Another example comes from places restricting export on some encryption technologies. The United States of America is an example, thus preventing VPN from being used in some countries as well. Before downloading the VPN client or before taking a computer system that already contains VPN client to a foreign country, the user must verify that no such restrictions exist for the country of destination. Also, it is important to fully read and understand the VPN client license agreement before downloading and using the software.

If you remain in the United States and if you use the VPN client only to connect back to Missouri State University resources, you won't have any problems with the above issues.

Upgrading and the VPN Client

The Passport (or Cisco AnyConnect) VPN client will automatically download and install upgraded software as it becomes available.  The process is quick and easy taking well under a minute on most modern machines.  Remember, the Passport VPN is recommended in all cases.

The legacy Cisco Systems IPSEC VPN Client is not supported on Windows Vista installations that have been upgraded from Windows XP or on any 64-bit system.  It is not recommended for any Windows 7 machine either.  To avoid such issues, remove the IPSEC VPN client (if previously installed) and install the new Passport VPN.  A complete rebuild with a full install of Windows Vista would fix this issue, but Passport is much easier and quicker and, therefore, highly recommended instead!