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PittNet VPN (GlobalProtect)

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The GlobalProtect client is an important software tool that helps safeguard the security of everyone’s computers and information on campus. The GlobalProtect client works with the University's enterprise network firewalls to check the identity of each user to be sure they are authorized to use University computing resources. GlobalProtect is required on computers that connect with a cable to the wired network on the Pittsburgh campus.

When used as a VPN to establish a secure remote connection (for example, to access restricted University resources like departmental file servers), it also encrypts traffic between your computer and the University’s network. 

Key Benefits

  • Privacy protection: Use for added safety and confidentiality for public and private network connections.
  • Improved security: Assist with ensuring University network security while connected on and off campus.
  • Increased Session Length: Supports longer sessions, avoiding timeout restrictions found in other VPN clients.
  • Mobility: Securely access University resources from anywhere, on or off campus.
  • Access restricted resources: Securely access a private network and share data remotely through public networks.
  • Improved network connectivity via a virtual private network (VPN): Easily and quickly establish long-distance, secure encrypted network connections with high throughput.

Requirements

Connections through GlobalProtect require a University Computing Account, a supported, up-to-date operating system, a software firewall enabled on your computer, and an antivirus solution. ​

Getting Started

Follow the steps below to connect using the PittNet VPN.

  • Note: You may be prompted to log in again to GlobalProtect (the current client used for the PittNet VPN service) if your network connection is interrupted (for example, if your computer goes to sleep or if you switch back and forth between wired and Wi-Fi networks).     

Connecting with Windows or macOS

  1. Download and install the GlobalProtect client from the Software Download Service.
  2. Open GlobalProtect.
  3. In the Portal field, type portal-palo.pitt.edu and click Connect.


     
  4. Enter your your Pitt credentials, then click Connect.


     
  5. Enter "push" to log in using multifactor authentication using your default device.   

      
     
  6. A pop-up window will display indicating that you are connected.
    Note: You may be prompted to log in again to GlobalProtect if your network connection is interrupted (for example, if your computer goes to sleep or if you switch back and forth between wired and Wi-Fi networks).
     
  7. To disconnect, click the upper right-hand side of the connection window and select Disconnect.

Connecting with Linux

Connecting an Android Device

  1. Download and install the app from the Google Play store.
  2. Open the app.
  3. Enter portal-palo.pitt.edu.
    Note: UPMC users also enter portal-palo.pitt.edu.
  4. Tap Connect.
    Note: As a first-time user, you may see a pop-up message saying "Cannot Verify Server Identity." Ignore this message.
  5. Tap Continue.
  6. Enter your Pitt credentials, then tap Sign In. 
  7. Tap OK. Once connected, the app displays a green shield icon on a blue background.
  8. To disconnect from the VPN, tap the shield. When disconnected, the app will display a grey shield on a grey background. 
  9. To change settings or sign out, tap the menu icon in the top left. 

Review list of compatible operating systems ...

Connecting a Chromebook

  1. Download and install the GlobalProtect app. 
  2. Open the GlobalProtect app.
  3. Enter portal-palo.pitt.edu, then click Add Connection.
    Note: UPMC users also enter portal-palo.pitt.edu.
  4. Click the status area in the bottom-right corner of the screen to pop up a menu.
  5. Select VPN Disconnected, then click the entry.
  6. Enter your Pitt Credentials, then click Connect.
  7. When you are finished accessing University resources, please end your GlobalProtect connection.

Review list of compatible operating systems ...

Connecting an iOS Device

  1. Download and install the app from the Apple App Store. 
  2. Open the GlobalProtect app.
  3. Tap Allow to get notifications.
  4. Enter portal-palo.pitt.edu.
    Note: UPMC users also enter portal-palo.pitt.edu.
  5. Tap Allow to add the VPN configuration to this device.
  6. Enter your Pitt credentials, then tap Sign In.
  7. Log in using multifactor authentication.
  8. You will be connected. When you are finished, tap Disconnect.

​Review list of compatible operating systems ...

More Ways to Get the Most from GlobalProtect:

Troubleshooting