Overview

MSU's Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides a way to log in and create a secure connection to MSU systems or files when you are at an off-campus location or using campus wireless networks. For example, a VPN connection is required to edit any web content, to access several modules of the Enterprise Business System (EBS) or to access files on the share (V:) drive. MSU VPN software will only allow a log in from machines that have modern antivirus software with the latest updates.

The approved software for connecting to the VPN is call F5. It can be used simply via a browser connection (through new.vpn.msu.edu) or by installing and using the more robust F5 Big-IP Edge desktop application.
 

Using the VPN via Browser

1. From your device, open a web browser and navigate to new.vpn.msu.edu
2. Log in with your MSU email address and MSU password.
3. Verify your login using two-factor authentication.
4. As prompted, download required code or programs.
5. Select  Start inspection.
6. Check the box to "Always allow new.vpn.msu.edu to open links..." and select Open F5 Networks Endpoint Inspector.
   The system checks for security software.
7. If you see a window pop up asking "Do you want to allow this app to make changes to your device?" select Yes.
8. Under Launch Browser Client, select Moderate.
9. If prompted "Browser needs permission to start VPN," select Start.
10. A window or two will temporarily pop up showing connection status of Initializing and Connecting.
11. You should now be connected. Try accessing the desired site or system to ensure the VPN is working.
     

Installing F5/Big IP-Edge on Windows computers:

Team members can install this VPN software on their RHS device through the Windows Software Center. 

See this article for how to install. Just be sure to look for the application F5 Big IP Edge Client. 

Once the application is installed, open it by:

1. Going to Start and search for "Big-IP."
2. Selecting the Big-IP Edge Client App.
   
   
3. If prompted to log in, right away, close that window using the X and say Yes you want to disconnect. (This is because it often fails to connect the first time. )
   This is a known issue due to multi-factor authentication and will happen every time you launch F5 Big-IP.
   Note: If you are not able to select the X on the connection window, you may have to press Ctrl - Alt - Delete on your keyboard, select Task Manager, then select the Big IP Edge process and choose End Task. Then launch Big IP Edge again.
4. Then select the Connect button.
    
   
5. Follow the prompts and log in with your MSU NetID credentials and MSU's Okta Multifactor authentication. 
6. The application will scan and confirm anti-virus software is installed.
7. If you see a window pop up asking "Do you want to allow this app to make changes to your device?" select Yes.
8. You will then be connected to campus through the VPN and able to access protected systems.