Getting Started With VPN

Note: If you are using a device managed by MiWorkspace, VPN software and profiles are configured for you. Please 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.

Note: ITS recommends users select the UMVPN - Only U-M Traffic profile when working remotely. This profile allows access to services that require the VPN when off-campus but prevents processing of excess traffic. 

Connect to U-M VPN

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. For information about installing and using the Michigan Medicine VPN, refer to the Michigan Medicine VPN content.

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).

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.