VPN - Virtual Private Network
The Cisco VPN Client is required to connect to Missouri State University from off-campus. A VPN is a secure connection to the university that allows access to resources that would only be accessible from on-campus. Connecting to Missouri State University through the VPN is slower than connecting without the VPN. For this reason we recommend using only high-speed Internet connections (DSL or cable modem) when connecting through a VPN. Dialup is not recommended for use when using the VPN client. You may follow this link to download Missouri State's VPN software. Installation and setup instructions are also provided. To download, all you need is your Private ID and Password.
Stateful Firewall (optional)
The VPN Dialer comes with a built-in stateful firewall that you can optionally turn on. A stateful firewall will protect your computer from most hacking attempts by denying access to your computer from other computers on the Internet. To enable this option, open the VPN Dialer and click "Options" and then "Stateful Firewall (Always On)." Once you have done this you will see a check mark to the left of "Stateful Firewall" which lets you know that it is enabled. This feature will work whether or not you are connected to Missouri State University through the VPN.Note: The stateful firewall will block all incoming requests to your computer. If you are running a server such as a web or game server, the stateful firewall will keep them from working. We suggest installing a personal firewall and opening the appropriate ports for your service (i.e. port 80 for web).
Also, while you are connected to Missouri State University through the VPN, the same restrictions will apply that are present with the built-in stateful firewall. The VPN will block all incoming requests to your computer as a security measure.