Setting up Virtual Private Network (VPN)

VPN is a service which allows users who are connected to the internet to access University-restricted web resources and other services off campus.

When should I use VPN?

VPN provides a secure connection between your device and the University network.

Access systems remotely which can normally only be accessed whilst on campus

Access specialist licensed software

You are working with personal or sensitive data whilst connected to public WiFi

Setting up VPN

Step 1: Set up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) increases the security of remote access services by requiring multiple forms of verification. Users must approve access requests via the 'Microsoft Authenticator' app each time they access a remote service such as VPN or Remote Desktop.

You will need:

A computer (desktop/laptop) to set up your MFA account
A mobile device (SIM-enabled smartphone/tablet/iPad) to approve access requests via MFA
Your University login details

Install 'Microsoft Authenticator' from your mobile device's app store

Configure MFA across devices - once MFA is installed on your mobile device, use your university email address and password to sign in to https://aka.ms/mfasetup on your computer

Configure MFA instructions (Workspace log in required)

Step 2: Download Forticlient VPN

Download FortiClient VPN from https://remote.nottingham.ac.uk

VPN access request (if not a permanent member of staff)

Approve the connection on your mobile device through the Microsoft Authenticator app, or enter the code when prompted

Once logged in, click on 'Download FortiClient' to install on your desktop/laptop following the on-screen instructions and using any default settings

System requirements

Windows 10 or higher
macOS 11 Big Sur or higher
Android 7.0 or higher
iOS 9.0 or higher

For all unsupported operating systems, please use the "Quick Connection" web link at https://remote.nottingham.ac.uk/ to access a SSL VPN connection. are available on Workspace (Workspace login required).

Step 3: Configure FortiClient VPN

Follow the steps for your operating system to set up Fortinet VPN (Windows, macOS, iOS (iPhone and iPad), Android, Linux)

Configure VPN instructions (Workspace log in required)

Step 4: Connect to FortiClient VPN

Enter your university email address and password on the FortiClient VPN

Approve the connection on your mobile device through the Microsoft Authenticator app, or enter the code when prompted

A pop-up message should appear on your desktop or laptop confirming that you are now connected to the UoN VPN service

Please only use the VPN during the time when you need to access university web resources or systems that are not available off campus.

Detailed instructions with screenshots are available on the links below (Workspace log in required):

Multi-Factor Authentication

Virtual Private Network (VPN)