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

VPN Setup and Remote Access