A VPN ( virtual private network ) is a network that uses a public telecommunication infrastructure, such as the Internet, to provide remote offices or individual users with secure access to their organization's network. The VPN works by using the shared public infrastructure while maintaining privacy through security procedures and tunneling protocols. In effect, the protocols, by encrypting data at the sending end and decrypting it at the receiving end, send the data through a "tunnel" that cannot be "entered" by data that is not properly encrypted. An additional level (...)

Users who have a need to access certain secure UNCA applications and systems from an off-campus site must make a request to ITS (Information Technology Services) for such access. Policies and procedures for doing so are located at the following site: VPN Access and Procedures Access to the required Agreement Form (used to apply for access) is provided in Item IV on the VPN Access and Procedures document. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Example of what to tell people: "Please go to the ITS web page http://www.unca.edu/compcenter and look at the usa (...)