Ball State VPN

The Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides wireless users with security by encrypting (protecting against interception) all information passed between your computer and the wireless access point. Having all of the data encrypted by the VPN is required when using services such as FTP, TELNET, iLocker/iWeb (via FTP) or programs such as Dreamweaver, Outlook Express (not Outlook Web Access), or Fetch which rely upon these services.

Web Browsing
If you are only using the wireless network for web browsing, VPN is generally not needed because all web sites where confidential information (such as a credit card number) is required should already be using HTTPS security. If the web site does not use HTTPS security, you should report it to the UCS Helpdesk (if a Ball State University site) or the web site administrator (if an off-campus site) and avoid using the site until it is fixed.

Everything Else Besides Web Browsing
Using VPN is required when using FTP, TELNET, POP3, IMAP, and SMTP which do not encrypt your confidential information (including your password) from attackers who may attempt to intercept your communications.

Keep in mind that neither the VPN nor the HTTPS security described above will protect you if the remote server is compromised or is a phishing attempt you do not recognize. To protect yourself don’t enter any confidential information if you do not trust the remote server, regardless of VPN or HTTPS security. All students, faculty, staff, and visitors should report suspicious web sites or servers to the UCS Helpdesk.