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RRZ
RRZ

Photo: UHH, RRZ/MCC

VPN

Using a “Virtual Private Network (VPN),” it is possible to establish a secure and encrypted connection to the UHH network via an external Internet connection. This is absolutely necessary for using a wide range of UHH IT services, as these are accessible only from the UHH network for security reasons (including the RRZ Service Portal, UHH Disk, and others).

In general, this is only possible with a current version of “Cisco AnyConnect” or “Secure Client” (Note: The “AnyConnect Client” has been renamed “Cisco Secure Client” by the manufacturer). This measure ensures that only access software using current encryption methods is used.

If you have any questions, please contact the RRZ ServiceLine and the RRZ ServiceDesk.

Usage Requirements

A valid user ID (b******) is a mandatory requirement for using the VPN service.

Further information on the University of Hamburg user ID is available here.

General Notes

  • Problems establishing a VPN connection may also be due to the respective Internet service provider.
  • The UHH VPN service can only be used with the access software described by the RRZ.
  • If you encounter problems using the VPN access solutions provided by the RRZ, please check whether the operating system you are using is still supported by the manufacturer and whether all security updates have been installed.
  • The AnyConnect/Secure Client is continuously being developed by Cisco. This involves integrating new features, implementing performance improvements, and closing known security vulnerabilities. The RRZ reserves the right to block the use of older versions for security reasons, which will require an update.
  • Once you have connected to the UHH network via VPN, your computer becomes part of the UHH network. You will be assigned an IP address from the UHH address space.

Installation and Connection Setup

The VPN connection to the UHH data network is established via an existing internet connection. For details, please refer to the webpage “VPN Access to the UHH Data Network”.

Further information on installation, as well as links to download the Secure Client, can be found on the following RRZ webpages:

Restrictions due to a VPN connection

After connecting to the VPN, access to local networks is no longer possible according to the default settings (e.g., access to a private network printer in your home office). It is possible to change the settings so that the local network can still be accessed. However, please note that this poses a security risk.