If you are using a device managed by MiWorkspace, VPN software and profiles are configured for you. See MiWorkspace Work Remotely for more information. If you need help connecting to VPN on a managed device, please contact the ITS Service Center. These pages provide VPN configurations for unmanaged devices (e.g. research devices, personal computers).
In order to use the VPN on your computer, tablet, or smartphone, you need to download the appropriate VPN client or university VPN profile to your device.
- ITS recommends users select the UMVPN - Only U-M Traffic profile when working remotely. This profile allows access to most services that require the VPN when off-campus but prevents processing of excess traffic.
- Expect 100+ Mbps download/upload speed when connected to one of our VPN profiles dependent on your internet provider connection.
- If you need access to the library databases, use the UMVPN - All Traffic profile.
Connect to U-MVPN
Select the operating system for your device:
Michigan Medicine VPN
The Michigan Medicine network has its own VPN server that specifically controls access to health system protected resources. Visit the Health Information Technology & Services (HITS) website to learn more about using the Michigan Medicine VPN.
Using a VPN While Traveling Internationally
It is generally a good idea to download and install a VPN client before you leave the U.S. There are some countries where it may be difficult or impossible to download one while in the country. Some countries go further and restrict access to VPNs or even ban their use. Further, international travelers must abide by the import laws and regulations of the destination country(ies) as well as U.S. export control regulations. Specifically, there are additional considerations when traveling internationally with certain data encryption software (potentially including VPNs).
Note: U-M students studying remotely from China during the 2020-21 school year can use MLane for more reliable, high-speed access to specific U-M teaching and learning tools and resources. For more information about MLane see Configuring MLane on Your Device.
For more information about using a VPN while traveling internationally, see Guidelines for Domestic and International Travelers. For issues related to compliance with export control regulations, contact the U-M export control officer, exportcontrols@umich.edu.
Important: Some nations have banned or intend to ban the use of VPNs.
Using VPN services could put you at risk of being accused of cyber espionage or other crimes. At present, who is affected by the bans, when they take effect, and how they might be implemented are unclear.
If your Internet Service Provider (ISP) is blocking typical IPSEC VPN ports like TCP 500, 4500 & 10,000, you can attempt to use the SSL client by pointing your browser at https://umvpn.umnet.umich.edu, which will require TCP port 443. This should be open for most ISPs.