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Remote Secure Data Access (VPN)

What is it?

Cisco VPN (Virtual Private Network) enables faculty and staff to connect from a remote location to utilize secure University services and applications.  This service provides secure and encrypted data transmissions between your computer and the University network.  

When is it available?

This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with the exception of upgrades, maintenance, and scheduled outages.

Who can use it?

Faculty and Staff

How much does it cost?

There is no cost associated with this service.

Where to get help?

The IT Service Desk should be your first point of contact for technical assistance. Contact the Service Desk by sending an email to itservicedesk@unca.edu or calling 828-251-6445.  The IT Service Desk Self-Service Portal is also available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Self-Service portal allows you to request assistance from ITS using a simple web form.

Associated Policies

Responsible Use of Electronic Resources (Policy 7100)Information Technology Confidentiality (Policy 7103)Network Standards and Management (Policy 7203)Network Communications Standards and Practices (Policy 7206)Network and Data Security Policy (Policy 7300)Handling of Potential IT Policy Violations (Policy 7111)

More Information

 Use the links below to access the VPN instructions and website.

VPN Remote Access Website


As of Fall 2023 we have began transitioning to GlobalProtect as our VPN clients. Please refer to the global protect page for more instructions: https://kb.unca.edu/kb/globalprotect-vpn


The Cisco VPN is used to connect a computer not currently on campus to the campus network.  This permits access to network file shares, Banner, and other services only available when on campus.

VPN access is only available from off-campus locations. If you attempt to connect to the VPN while on campus and connected to a UNC Asheville network, the connection will fail.

When do you need VPN?

Please reference When do you need VPN? for a list of services that do or do not require a VPN connection.

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