A VPN is a software that provides more seamless access to databases and other resources, as if you were "on campus." Using a VPN often resolves access problems with library databases when you are off-campus, including firewall issues.

Most library resources do not require the GlobalProtect VPN for off-campus access; however, you can try logging in through the VPN if you are experiencing issues connecting to a database or if help isn't available. 

The VPN is required for a few databases

• AdSpender
• Bloomberg Law
• CB Insights
• SciFinder Scholar / SciFinder-n
• Siku Quanshu
• Tax Notes

See the Penn State IT Knowledge Base article entitled "GlobalProtect Remote Access VPN - Overview"

You will need to go to the Knowledge Base article about the Supported Agent Versions to learn about the versions offered.

Visit the Penn State Software web site to download the GlobalProtect VPN. Select Penn State, then select the "software titles by category" link. GlobalProtect VPN can be found under the “Connecting to Penn State” section.

Then follow the instructions on the GP Overview page to install and configure GP for your operating system.

NOTE: Once GlobalProtect has been installed, it should automatically start when you login to your PSU laptop/workstation.

NOTE: Using a VPN may interfere with wi-fi connected printers and other devices. If necessary, disconnect from GP:

• Launch the GlobalProtect app by clicking the system tray icon.
• When the status panel opens, click the hamburger menu located in the upper right-hand corner.
• Click Disable.
• The status panel automatically closes when you click anywhere outside the panel.