As you continue working the majority of the time from home, we recommend that you take a fresh look at using a Virtual Private Network, or VPN, for all Duke-based work. Here’s what you should know:
But first, here’s our Tech Tip of the Week …
Sending an email to a large group of people?
Consider using the BCC function for your recipients. That helps prevent everyone on the email from receiving routine updates, thank-you notices, etc. when people accidentally use Reply All. (Hint: That’s what I’m using for Tech Tuesday – even an accidental Reply All will only come to me.)
If all email recipients don’t need to see responses, they’ll appreciate the courtesy.
Answers to some of your VPN questions –
- What are the main benefits of a VPN?
- A VPN hides your computer’s IP address from hackers and websites
- Your location & device are unknown – you appear as the VPN server, not your device
- All traffic entering and leaving your device is encrypted
- Your data is safe and secure at all times.
- Your internet activity remains private
- Travel internationally? A VPN can make it appear to websites as if you are back home in the US.
- OR – a VPN can make it appear that you are in another country/city when you are, in fact, home.
- A VPN hides your computer’s IP address from hackers and websites
- Do I need a VPN if I’m using my home WiFi?
- While your network traffic within your home network is encrypted, once it leaves your house, it is no longer encrypted and can be monitored.
- Using a VPN protects your data and network traffic even after it leaves your house.
- Can I still be hacked if I use a VPN?
- A VPN prevents attacks that track, monitor or steal data.
- A VPN does not protect you if you visit a malicious site and pick up a virus.
- You’ll still need to use a virus protection program. We have installed a virus protection program you’re your Duke-owned computer.
- How do I get a VPN?
- There are many private VPNs available online. Use the link below (in Extra Credit) to find one that suits your requirements.
- When selecting a VPN, be sure to look at customer comments and industry rating. Select one that offers:
- No vendor logging or monitoring
- Strong encryption
- No advertisements
- Multiple devices (use it on your PC, mobile device, tablet, etc.)
- Is there a cost for a private VPN?
- There are free VPNs, but they contain ads and/or monitor and sell your activity.
- Does Duke cover the cost for a private VPN?
- No, but they offer the Duke VPN for you to use if you’d like to use one.
- Can I use Duke’s VPN for private internet activity?
- It will appear to all of the websites you visit that you are located at Duke.
- It may slow down your browsing a little.
How Do I use the Duke VPN?
Here’s a link to the Duke VPN page. The steps you’ll follow:
- Before installing the VPN client, set up your Multifactor Authentication
- Download and run the Cisco AnyConnect install file
- Once the installation is complete, open Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client
- In the Connect box type: duhs.duke.edu
- Enter your NetID and Password
- For Security Key or Second Password, enter your Multifactor Authentication code from DUO Mobile
- Click OK
- Once connected, the dialog box will disappear
- When you are finished with the VPN
- Open Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client
- Select the Disconnect option
Extra Credit
- Get a Private VPN and use it on all devices
- Using a private VPN provides an encrypted connection for all of your devices, not just your main computer.
- Here’s a comparison of different private VPN services from a trusted source. If you’d like a recommendation for a basic, easy-to-use personal VPN, try TunnelBear.
