Using VPN (virtual private network), you can connect to the NTNU network and access internal resources, your home directory or other NTNU network directories from home. The following is a guide to installing VPN on your personal computer.

Norsk versjon - Installere VPN

Topic page about IT services | Pages labelled with VPN

What is VPN?

VPN is an abbreviation for Virtual Private Network, and acts as a "secure tunnel" between your computer and NTNU's computer network and - systems. The traffic in the tunnel is encrypted and cannot be monitored. Use of VPN thus secures traffic to NTNU and will at the same time make your machine part of NTNU's computer network. This gives you access to services which only are reachable from NTNU's network, even if you are off campus.

When you're connected to VPN you're connected to NTNUs network, and you therefore have to follow NTNUs IT regulations.

Install VPN

Do you have a PC managed by NTNU?

In that case, you already have a VPN service, Always On VPN, installed and ready for use. No further installation is required.

Note: Users of storage areas in NICE-1, needs to use the app NICE VPN to connect. You will find NICE VPN in Software Center.

Devices not managed by NTNU

Install Cisco Anyconnect VPN from AppsAnywhere. The program can be installed on personal devices by both students and staff. It is available for Windows, Mac and Linux.

Note that the program can only be used for academic work (teaching and research) - not for paid contracted research.

Watch instructional video VPN for Windows

Watch instructional video VPN for Mac

VPN for devices not managed by NTNU

Alternative methods of installation

If it is not possible to install Cisco AnyConnect as described above, it is possible to download the program from vpn.ntnu.no. Another option (if all else fails) is to enter Microsoft Store (from Windows), search for and install the AnyConnect app from Cisco Systems.

Connect to VPN

1. Open the Cisco Anyconnect application.
2. Enter vpn.ntnu.no in the field for server address.
3. Click "Connect".
4. Enter your NTNU username and password,
5. Click "OK".
6. You will now get a popup windows to enter NTNUs two-factor authentication. Enter your username@ntnu.no and password. If you haven't activated tow-factor authentication: How to activate two-factor authentication.

VPN on iPhones and iPads

This page describes how to install VPN on iPhones and iPads

VPN on Android

You can find this app in Google Play Store. The Any Connect application is free to install and use.

VPN on Linux

This page describes how to install VPN on Linux

Known errors and solutions

Known errors

ERROR: "The VPN client agent was unable to create the interprocess communication depot."

This error can occur if you have turned on Windows Internet Connection Sharing.

Turn off ICS: Network and Sharing Center --> Change Adapter Settings --> Right-click on adapter and choose Properties --> Sharing tab --> Uncheck Allow other network users to connect through this computer's Internet connection.

Or: Windows key + R --> write services.msc --> double-click Internet Connection Sharing --> Change Startup Type to Disabled--> Restart your computer.

Contact

Orakel Support Services can help if you have questions or if you encounter difficulties.