From time to time, you may find yourself working off campus and experiencing issues connecting to the internet, the campus VPN, or your office computer through a remote desktop connection. We’ve laid out a few common scenarios with suggestions, troubleshooting steps, and general explanations here.

Scenario: I can’t connect to the VPN!

Things to check: Are you actually connected to the internet? Even if you see the wireless signal, if you’re at a hotel or other public venue, you may have to open a web browser to finish logging in to the wireless network.

Scenario: I’m definitely connected to the internet; websites load. But I still can’t connect to the VPN!

Things to check: Your VPN settings may be incorrect, so double-check them. If you’re sure the settings are correct, it’s possible that the network you’re on simply won’t allow VPN connections. Another possibility is that the campus VPN service is currently undergoing maintenance or other technical difficulties. Try back in 15 minutes.

Scenario: Okay, I’m online and connected to the VPN, but my remote software won’t connect to my computer.

Things to check: This usually means your office computer is asleep or turned off. If you can reach someone in your office, ask them to make sure the computer is on and awake. If it’s during university business hours, you can also call your IT Help Desk and an IT Pro can check the settings on your computer to make sure that you are set up to be allowed access.

Scenario: Hooray! I’m connected to my office computer! …Why is it so slow!?

Things to consider: The remote connection has to make its way through several layers and possibly thousands of miles to reach your computer. If you’re on a slow connection at a hotel or cafe, you will likely notice a significant delay between tapping or typing and the display showing the action. This is annoying, but normal.

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