What Is a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?

Summary

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is used to provide secure, encrypted communication between a network and a remote host or other remote networks over the public Internet. VPNs allow the establishment of an encrypted “tunnel” that protects the flow of network traffic from eavesdroppers.

Body

Answer

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is used to provide secure, encrypted communication between a network and a remote host or other remote networks over the public Internet. VPN's allow the establishment of an encrypted “tunnel” that protects the flow of network traffic from eavesdroppers.

Do I need a VPN?

If you connect to systems or services only available internally to the Creighton network, then yes.  The VPN ensures that confidentiality and integrity of information as it travels over the public Internet because VPN provides:

  • User Authentication and Authorization for network access
  • Encrypted transmission of data
  • Verification of unadulterated data transmission

What is the GlobalProtect VPN Client?

GlobalProtect is the name of Creighton’s VPN access method.  When you go to launch the VPN, you will need to launch the GlobalProtect program.

How does VPN work?

A VPN consists of two components: a software client on the remote computer and a concentrator. The software client allows a user to establish an encrypted “tunnel” with the concentrator. This tunnel prevents other users on the Internet from being able to easily view the encrypted data.

What operating systems do you have VPN clients available for?

The Creighton VPN client is currently available for Windows and macOS, however IT does not provide VPN technical support for issues with home systems.

What types of Internet connections work with VPN?

VPN should work with:

  • DSL 
  • Cable Modem
  • Satellite
  • ISDN 
  • Dial-Up ISP

Although VPN will work over dial-up access, due to added overhead of encryption, performance of the VPN over dial-up is degraded. Creighton highly recommends the use of broadband access for VPN connectivity.

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Details

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Article ID: 555
Created
Thu 3/21/24 5:17 PM
Modified
Wed 10/15/25 12:24 PM

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Questions regarding the Creighton Virtual Private Network (VPN)
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