Remote Access Guide
Connect securely to company resources from anywhere.
What is VPN?
Virtual Private Network provides:
- Secure encrypted connection
- Access to internal systems
- Protection on public WiFi
- Required for remote work
- Compliant with security policy
Installing VPN Client
Windows:
- Visit vpn.company.com
- Click "Download for Windows"
- Run installer as administrator
- Follow installation wizard
- Restart computer
Mac:
- Visit vpn.company.com
- Click "Download for Mac"
- Open .dmg file
- Drag to Applications folder
- Open and allow system extension
Mobile (iOS/Android):
- Download Cisco AnyConnect from app store
- Open app
- Enter server:
vpn.company.com - Save connection
Connecting to VPN
- Open VPN client
- Click "Connect"
- Enter username:
firstname.lastname - Enter password (same as Windows login)
- Enter MFA code when prompted
- Wait for connection (usually 10-15 seconds)
- Look for "Connected" status
VPN Connection Types
Full Tunnel (Default):
- All internet traffic through VPN
- Maximum security
- Required for accessing sensitive data
- May be slower for general browsing
Split Tunnel:
- Only company traffic through VPN
- Other traffic direct to internet
- Faster for personal browsing
- Contact IT to request
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
Cannot connect:
- Check internet connection first
- Verify username and password
- Ensure VPN client is updated
- Try restarting VPN client
- Restart computer if needed
- Check firewall settings
Connection drops frequently:
- Check WiFi signal strength
- Move closer to router
- Restart router
- Contact ISP if home internet unreliable
- Use wired connection if possible
"Authentication failed":
- Verify password hasn't expired
- Check caps lock is off
- Ensure MFA code is current
- Reset password if needed
Accessing Company Resources
Once connected to VPN:
- Email: Open Outlook as usual
- File Shares: Access network drives
- Intranet: Browse internal sites
- Applications: Launch business apps
- Remote Desktop: Connect to office PC
Remote Desktop Connection
Access your office computer:
- Connect to VPN first
- Open Remote Desktop app
- Enter PC name:
WKS-[your badge number] - Enter credentials
- Click "Connect"
- Your office desktop appears
Keyboard shortcuts:
- Ctrl+Alt+End: Opens Task Manager
- Ctrl+Alt+Break: Toggle full screen
VPN Best Practices
- Always connect VPN when working remotely
- Disconnect when not in use
- Never share VPN credentials
- Don't use VPN for personal activities
- Keep client software updated
- Use secure WiFi or wired connection
- Lock computer when away
Public WiFi Safety
Using public networks:
- Always use VPN
- Avoid sensitive transactions without VPN
- Verify network name with establishment
- Don't use "Free WiFi" without password
- Disable file sharing
- Turn off auto-connect
Performance Tips
Improving VPN speed:
- Use wired connection instead of WiFi
- Close unnecessary applications
- Clear browser cache regularly
- Choose closest VPN server (if multiple available)
- Upgrade home internet if consistently slow
Mobile VPN Use
Connecting from phone/tablet:
- Use only for business needs
- Avoid on cellular data (expensive)
- Preferred: WiFi + VPN
- Limited bandwidth on mobile
- Email and light tasks work well
VPN Updates
Keeping client current:
- Updates pushed automatically
- Restart client to apply
- Manual check: Settings → Check for Updates
- Never skip updates (security patches)
International Travel
Using VPN abroad:
- Works in most countries
- Some countries block VPNs
- Contact IT before international travel
- May need special configuration
- Comply with local laws
Disconnecting VPN
When to disconnect:
- Done with work for the day
- Need faster speeds for personal use
- Troubleshooting connection issues
How to disconnect:
- Click "Disconnect" in VPN client
- Or right-click system tray icon
- Confirm disconnection
Company Policy
VPN usage requirements:
- Mandatory for remote access
- Business use only
- Subject to monitoring
- Violation may result in discipline
- Contact IT Security with questions
Getting Help
VPN support available:
- IT Service Desk: ext. 4357
- VPN Guide: kb.company.com/vpn
- Video Tutorial: On intranet
- Email: vpnhelp@company.com
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