It is possible to establish an encrypted remote connection from outside the university to the servers of the University of Helsinki. A VPN connection is useful in unencrypted networks (e.g. visitor networks at libraries and airports and in other public spaces).
Quick help
1. Go to the App Store and download a program called OpenVPN Connect
2. Download the configuration files to the mobile device using the Safari browser, either in the Download Centre (search for the downloads with the search word “VPN”) or via direct links here:
- Download the configuration file uh-vpn-helsinkifi-only.ovpn
- Download the configuration file uh-vpn-allroute.ovpn
Tip: Clicking on the link opens the file download in a new window. Click on the Downloads menu (blue down arrow icon) in the browser’s address bar. If you cannot see the download link in your Safari browser, open the Files program and open the downloaded file in the OpenVPN application.
3. Add your own username information (note: username in short form, e.g. rkeskiva).
Go to Settings, Allow Compression (insecure) and add Full.
4. Launch the OpenVPN program and activate the VPN connection.
Illustrated instructions are available in the Detailed help tab.
Detailed help
Table of contents
Installation
First, download and install the OpenVPN Connect program from App Store.
After this, you will need to adjust the settings. Follow these steps:
Download the configuration files to the mobile device using the Safari browser. You can download the files from the Download Centre (search for the files to be downloaded with the search word “VPN”) or using direct links here:
- Download the configuration file uh-vpn-helsinkifi-only.ovpn
- Download the configuration file uh-vpn-allroute.ovpn
Click on the link on your device and select Download in the window that opens.
Once the file has been downloaded, click open the Downloads menu (blue down arrow icon) in the browser’s address bar. In the menu that opens, select Downloads.
The Downloads list will open. Click on the configuration file you just downloaded.
In the view that opens, click Export (up arrow icon).
A view will open where you can select where the file will be exported. Select OpenVPN from the list.
Note! If you cannot see the download link in your Safari browser, open the Files program and open the downloaded file in the OpenVPN application.
Setting up the VPN profile
The configuration file will be imported into the OpenVPN Connect program. Click on ADD.
Fill in your username in its basic format, e.g. rkeskiva (1). Click on Connect (2).
The device may ask for permission to install the settings. Click on Allow to give permission.
Accept the installation of the VPN configuration by entering the PIN code for the device.
Next, return to the OpenVPN Connect program, go to the menu and select Settings
Open Advanced settings, Allow Compression (insecure) and click on Full.
Repeat the same process for the other configuration profile.
Once the profiles have been installed and the configurations are done, OpenVPN Connect is ready for use.
Establishing a connection
- Use the switch to open a connection.
- Enter your password (1) and click on OK (2).
- The device may ask you whether you want to allow the OpenVPN Connect program to establish a VPN connection. Select Yes.
- The connection will be established. In this view you, can see statistical information on the connection.
- You can see the VPN icon in the top bar when VPN is connected.
How to disconnect
Open the OpenVPN program (unless it is already open > double click on the home button to see all of your open programs).
Slide the switch from green to white to disconnect. You are now disconnected.
Video instruction
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