Virtual Private Networking (VPN) is security software that is used for accessing restricted UT Southwestern systems from the Internet.   Some of the campus services that require VPN for remote access include the Library's ebooks and databases, Cerner, vCDR, some materials on Web Curriculum, etc.

If you need VPN to access a desired campus resource from a remote location, Information Resources provides two VPN options for you - Juniper VPN and Cisco VPN.  (IR recommends Juniper VPN.)  Both require VPN Authorization (available with intranet access and your SouthwesternID and password).  Note:  Students already have VPN Authorization and do not need to click this link.

Juniper VPN

Note:  If you already have a VPN client loaded on your computer, please uninstall it before attempting to install the Juniper Network Connect client.  Having two VPN clients installed may cause connectivity issues.

• Juniper VPN Operating System Support
• Juniper VPN - Windows XP/Vista with Internet Explorer
• Juniper VPN - Macintosh with Safari

Cisco VPN 

Cisco VPN is free to all UT Southwestern faculty, staff, and students.  Note:  A number of steps in the Cisco VPN process require intranet access.  Complete those steps before you leave campus.

1. Confirm minimum hardware and software requirements for your remote computer
2. Request VPN Authorization (Requires intranet access and your SouthwesternID and password; students already have VPN authorization and can skip this step.)
3. Obtain Cisco VPN software (see sources later on this page)
4. Install Cisco VPN software
5. Run Firewall Exception batch file. Note: There is no firewall exception batch for the 5.0 or Mac versions of VPN.
6. Log into VPN concentrator
7. Use network resources and/or campus systems
8. Disconnect

See full details in the Cisco VPN and Remote Access (Windows XP) e-learning session (requires intranet access).  Click here to view a handout of the e-learning session. 

Cisco VPN Software
Cisco VPN software is available from the following sources: