New VPN for Remote Access
Information Technology-Computing
Due to a recent announcement by Ivanti, JMU’s Virtual Private Network (VPN) service must be quickly transitioned to a product from another vendor. Information Technology is introducing new VPN software from Palo Alto Networks called GlobalProtect. You can install and begin to use GlobalProtect now. The Ivanti VPN and client will be decommissioned on January 6, 2025.
We recommend that you begin using GlobalProtect now (instead of Ivanti, not at the same time) to make sure you can access all of your required resources before the old VPN is decommissioned.
Who does this affect?
This change affects anyone accustomed to using Ivanti Secure Access (formerly Pulse Secure) to connect remotely to JMU resources. This includes students or faculty who connect to Library resources or the Virtual Computer Labs from off-campus, remote workers who access protected administrative applications or virtual desktops, etc.
How do I install and connect to GlobalProtect?
For JMU computers, the preferred way to install the GlobalProtect client is from Software Center (Windows users) or Self Service (Mac users). To install the client on a personal computer, you may obtain it from https://gp.jmu.edu or from JMU’s Available Software page. Full installation and connection details are available from the IT Knowledge Base. Important: The sign-in process for GlobalProtect is unique, and you should review above knowledge base link for full details.
Are there significant differences?
The old and new clients function similarly, and you should have access to the same JMU resources through both. However, GlobalProtect does not currently have a web-based option. On January 6, the https://sslvpn.jmu.edu site will be decommissioned. This will end web-based access to the N drive, any “Web Bookmarks” you may use or have saved on the site, and any “Terminal Sessions” you may have saved. If you need help determining alternatives to these bookmarks or terminal sessions, please contact the IT Help Desk (see below).
Please note, IT is investigating a known issue where Macs on GlobalProtect are slow to connect to the JMU Self Service application. If you experience any issues while testing GlobalProtect, please report them to helpdesk@jmu.edu and continue to use Ivanti Secure Access until January.
What if I have questions?
If you have questions or require assistance, please contact the IT Help Desk at (540)568-3555 or helpdesk@jmu.edu.
