Installing and Connecting to Remote VPN

WVU uses Palo Alto GlobalProtect VPN to provide users with a modern VPN (virtual private network) service. Install the GlobalProtect software to access this service. Employees should connect to the VPN to access resources that are only available on-campus while they are located off-campus. 

While most remote work can be done without using Remote VPN, employees who need access to the web clock or leave request system will need to use this service. 

To review system requirements and additional information about using Remote VPN, read Working Remotely with a VPN.

If you need assistance, contact the ITS Service Desk at 304-293-4444.

System Requirements for Installation

To safely access WVU's Remote VPN, your computer must meet the following requirements:

• Supported operating systems:

  • Windows 10 

  • MacOS (version 10.13 High Sierra or higher)

  • Chrome OS

• Supported anti-virus with updated definitions. Options include Sophos, Norton (Symantec), McAfee, Windows Defender, Trend Micro, or Kaspersky.

  • If you don't have anti-virus, get Sophos anti-virus for free. 

Note: If you were issued a WVU computer to work remotely, your computer will already meet these requirements. 

Windows Installation and Setup

Download GlobalProtect client

To use this service, users must download the GlobalProtect client by visiting remote.wvu.edu and following the instructions below.

1. Go to remote.wvu.edu and login using your WVU Login credentials.

2. Click the GlobalProtect Agent download button at the top of the screen to open the client download window.

3. Select the correct download for your windows computer, either 64 bit or 32 bit. (If you are unsure of your system, click Start, type System Information, press Enter and locate the System Type.)

4. Click Run to open the GlobalProtect Setup Wizard.

5. Click Next.

6. Verify the installation path is correct and click Next.

7. Click Next to begin installation.

8. Permission may be required for the app to make changes, click Yes.

9. Click Close to exit and finish installation.

After installation, the GlobalProtect pop-up will appear in the lower right corner of the screen. Follow the steps below to connect to the VPN.

Connect to the VPN

If you are installing and connecting for the first time, the application should open automatically; skip to step 4 below. 

1. Click Start to open the menu.

2. Type GlobalProtect.
   Note: You can pin the GlobalProtect client to your taskbar for easier access. Right click GlobalProtect from the Start menu and select Pin to taskbar.

3. Press Enter to open the GlobalProtect client.

4. In the Portal address textbox, type remote.wvu.edu

5. Click Connect to open the Login window.

6. Login using your WVU credentials.

7. A Script Error message may appear; if so, click Yes.

8. Complete the Duo authentication check.

9. Enter your password into GlobalProtect one more time. 

10. GlobalProtect may suggest an update; if so, click No. 

You should now be connected to the Palo Alto GlobalProtect VPN.

Mac Installation and Setup

Download GlobalProtect client

To use this service, users must download the GlobalProtect client by visiting remote.wvu.edu and following the instructions below.

1. Go to remote.wvu.edu and login using your WVU Login credentials.

2. Click the GlobalProtect Agent download button at the top of the screen to open the client download window.

3. Click the Mac 32/64-bit download option.

4. The Finder window will open, check to make sure the save location is correct.

5. Click Save.

6. In the save location, open GlobalProtect.pkg

7. The GlobalProtect Installer will open, click Continue.

8. Verify the installation disk and click Continue.

9. Verify the GlobalProtect install action box is checked and click Continue.

10. Click Install and if prompted, enter your Mac computer login.

11. Click Install Software to begin installation.

12. The System Extension Blocked dialogue window may open. If so, click Open Security Preferences. In the new window, near the bottom portion click Allow.

13. After the installer is successful, click Close.

After installation, the GlobalProtect pop-up will appear in the upper menu bar of the screen. Follow the steps below to connect to the VPN.

Connecting to the VPN

1. From the menu bar across the top of the screen, click the GlobalProtect icon. The icon is a globe.

2. In the textbox, type remote.wvu.edu

3. Click Connect to open the Login window.

4. Login using your WVU credentials.

5. Complete the Duo authentication check.

6. Enter your password into GlobalProtect one more time. 

7. The client will be connected and a message stating "GlobalProtect would like to access files in your Desktop folder." Click Ok.

You should now be connected to the new Palo Alto GlobalProtect VPN. 

If you're unable to connect, try adjusting your System Preferences: 

1. Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > General. Under Allow apps downloaded from, select App Store and identified developers and GlobalProtect.

2. Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy. Select Full Disk Access from the left-hand menu > Click Lock icon and authenticate to add items to the Full Disk Access box. Click + then navigate to Applications and add GlobalProtect  and your anti-virus software. 

Chromebook Installation and Setup

Download GlobalProtect app

1. Go to the Chrome web store.

2. Click Get app. 

Connecting to the VPN

1. Launch the GlobalProtect app.

2. In the Portal text box, enter remote.wvu.edu. 

3. Click Add Connection. 

4. Login using your WVU credentials.

5. Complete the Duo authentication check.

Mapping Network/Shared Drives

1. After connecting to Remote VPN, visit jdrive.wvu.edu. This page is only available when you are connected to the VPN.

2. Log in with your WVU Login credentials. 

3. Authenticate with Duo two-factor. 

4. Click your operating system in the Setup Instructions pane.

5. Follow the instructions to map your N, J or S drives.