GlobalProtect Remote Access VPN - Overview

This article describes the GlobalProtect VPN and provides examples of when it is, and is not needed. The article also includes links to instructions for downloading and installing GlobalProtect.

GlobalProtect replaced Cisco’s AnyConnect as the official University VPN on June 19, 2021.

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What is GlobalProtect?

GlobalProtect creates a secure, private connection between your device and the University network. This extra layer of protection is required in order to access certain secured University resources, especially when connecting remotely. For example, a student may need to use GlobalProtect to connect to a protected server in a laboratory. Or a staff member may need to use GlobalProtect in order to connect to SIMBA from their home office.

Do I Need GlobalProtect?

If you are not sure whether on not you need GlobalProtect, you probably don't. That's because most commonly used University resources do not require that you use a GlobalProtect VPN connection.

Examples of resources that DO NOT require GlobalProtect

• Office365 (including Outlook and Teams)
• www.psu.edu
• Canvas 
• Zoom
• LionPATH
• Library resources
• WorkLion

Examples of resources that do require GlobalProtect

The following require a GlobalProtect VPN connection when connecting remotely, but not when you are on campus:

• protected network storage drives
• SIMBA
• intranet sites

Some resources, such as secure enclaves, require a GlobalProtect VPN connection whether you are working remotely or on campus.

If you are not sure whether you need GlobalProtect to connect to a specific resource, ask your professor or supervisor, or contact the Penn State IT Service Desk.

How do I Download and Install GlobalProtect?

If you use a computer that allows you to install and uninstall programs on your own, use the following instructions:

• KB0013419 - GlobalProtect Remote Access VPN: Windows OS
• KB0013420 - GlobalProtect Remote Access VPN: macOS 10.x
• KB0016224 - GlobalProtect Remote Access VPN: macOS 11.x (Big Sur) and 12.x (Monterey)
• KB0013424 - GlobalProtect Remote Access VPN: Linux OS
• KB0013422 - GlobalProtect Remote Access VPN: iOS
• KB0013423 - GlobalProtect Remote Access VPN: Android

If you use a computer that depends on local IT support to install and uninstall programs:

Please reach out to your local IT support staff or the Penn State IT Service Desk to have GlobalProtect installed on your device.

How to Get Help with the GlobalProtect Remote Access VPN

If you have questions or experience any difficulties, use any of the following methods to contact the IT Service Desk for help:

• Visit the IT Help Portal
• Call us at 814-865-HELP (4357)
• Email us at ITservicedesk@psu.edu

The GlobalProtect VPN is provided as part of Penn State's Enterprise Firewall service.

• KB0013898 - Supported Operating Systems
• KB0013671 - Supported Agent Versions
• KB0013418 - Help
• KB0013449 - HIP (Host Information Profile)
• KB0015585 - GlobalProtect Remote Access VPN - Allow agent to manually choose SSL
• KB0015681 - Remote Access performance
• KB0016862 - Agent connection and authentication timers

Troubleshooting

• KB0016297 - Known Issues, Errors, and Resolutions
• KB0017169 - Non-PSU user is taken to the wrong sign-in screen
• KB0017503 - Why can't I change the GlobalProtect login user name
• KB0013921 - How to Resubmit Host Profile

Issues with Zoom

• KB0017946 - "Killer Network Service" Prevents Zoom Connection on Windows Computers

For technical articles, IT personnel can go to KB0013427, GlobalProtect Remote Access VPN - Technical Overview.