Summary
This article has instructions for how to run the GlobalProtect VPN from PaloAlto Networks on a computer (Apple MacOS or Windows) or mobile device (iOS or Android).
Audience: Students, Faculty, Staff, or other USNH account holders who need to use the USNH VPN.
How-To
Task: To run the USNH VPN using the GlobalProtect VPN client on a computer.
Note 1: This assumes that the GlobalProtect VPN Client is already installed and configured on the computer you are using.
Note 2: Only one VPN can run at a time. Be sure to disconnect from any other VPN before trying to run the USNH VPN using GlobalProtect.
Instructions
The GlobalProtect VPN client looks virtually the same on Mac and Windows. Screenshots in this task may be from either platform.
Step 1 - Click on the GlobalProtect VPN client icon in your top menu bar (Mac OS) or bottom system tray (Windows).
Step 2 - The GlobalProtect VPN client will open just below (Mac OS) or above (Windows) the icon.
Step 3 - Click the "Connect" button. GlobalProtect will use the computer's default web browser (set through the operating system settings) to complete your authentication and connection.
Step 4 - GlobalProtect authenticates through the same Microsoft Single-Sign On (SSO) and MFA as email and Canvas. If you are not already signed in, you will be directed to sign into Microsoft using your username@usnh.edu (fully qualified username, like jbd2519@usnh.edu) and password along with your preferred method of multi-factor authentication (MFA), as below.
Step 5 - Once your sign-on is authenticated, GlobalProtect will go through its connection process, which involves opening two separate browser windows/tabs in the computer's default web browser (you can change the default web browser in the computer's operating system settings), one after the other. This is normal and required for the VPN to log itself in. You may be prompted to allow links to be opened. Note: Going forward, it will be simpler if you check the box to "Always allow ..." before you click "Open Link", if available in your default browser. This example image is from a Google Chrome browser.
These "paloalto networks" browser windows/tabs will open each time you connect, but generally do not need to be interacted with (other than allowing GlobalProtect to Open Links if requested). You must wait while these two browser windows/tabs process your VPN connection.
Step 6 - After the connection process is completed, your GlobalProtect VPN client will show that it is "Connected". At this point it is safe to close the two browser windows/tabs.
Note: If you close either browser window before the VPN has finished connecting, the connection may fail and you will have to try connecting again.
Step 7 - To disconnect the VPN when you are finished using it, open the GlobalProtect client and click "Disconnect".
Outcome
You are now connected to the USNH VPN on your computer through the GlobalProtect VPN client from PaloAlto Networks. You should be able to access your VPN-protected resources. You know how to disconnect the VPN when you are finished using it.
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Task: To run the USNH VPN using the GlobalProtect VPN client on a mobile device.
Note: This assumes that the GlobalProtect VPN Client is already installed and configured on the mobile device you are using.
Instructions
The GlobalProtect VPN client looks virtually the same on iOS and Android. Screenshots in this task may be from either platform.
Step 1 - Tap the GlobalProtect VPN client icon on your mobile device to open the app.
GlobalProtect App icon for iOS (left) and Android (right)
Step 2 - Tap the "Tap to Connect" button in the center of the app. GlobalProtect will use your device's default web browser (set through system settings) to complete your authentication and connection.
Step 3 - Sign in with your username@usnh.edu (like jbd2519@usnh.edu), password, and MFA if requested.
Note: you may need to go back to the GlobalProtect VPN app and "Tap to Connect" again.
Step 4 - Tap Open when prompted to Open this page in “GlobalProtect”? You may have to do this several times until GlobalProtect shows “CONNECTED”.
Step 5 - After the connection process is completed, your GlobalProtect VPN app will show that it is "CONNECTED".
Step 6 - To disconnect the VPN when you are finished using it, open the GlobalProtect app and tap the "CONNECTED" button in the center of the app.
Outcome
You are now connected to the USNH VPN on your mobile device through the GlobalProtect VPN client from PaloAlto Networks. You should be able to access your VPN-protected resources. You know how to disconnect the VPN when you are finished using it.
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Further Readings
GlobalProtect VPN: General Information and Resources
GlobalProtect VPN: Installing GlobalProtect on a Personal Device
GlobalProtect VPN: Configuring GlobalProtect on a Computer
GlobalProtect VPN: Configuring GlobalProtect on a Mobile Device
Need additional help?
Visit the Technology Help Desk Support page to locate your local campus contact information or to submit an online technology support request. For password issues you must call or visit the Help Desk in person.