Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Numerous services (such as access to IMAP and POP e-mail servers) are restricted to access from the internal UCAR network for security reasons. To legitimately access these difficult-to-secure services, UCAR implemented a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to allow safe access to blocked services from off-site.

By accessing UCAR's VPN server (a Cisco 3000 Series) while offsite, users can securely access UCAR's internal network from an external network just as if they had an Ethernet connection inside the UCAR security perimeter (firewall).

Wireless and conference room networks

VPN is also utilized by users of our external conference room network and wireless network. These networks are external because they are publicly accessible.

Access from home and while traveling

At home, staff can use VPN in conjunction with their own ISP (Internet Service Provider) to access UCAR via a dial-up or broadband (cable, DSL, community wireless or satellite) connection. When traveling, users are able to use VPN from an Ethernet, wireless, or dialup connection at a company, university, hotel, or convention center.