How to Connect to the VPN Before Windows Login
Step-by-Step Guide
This guide walks through the steps to connect to the GlobalProtect VPN directly from the Windows lock screen. This is required to access your domain account if you are logging into a University of Alaska Windows device for the very first time from an off-campus network (like a home or public WiFi).
Prerequisites:
- You must have access to an active internet connection (WiFi or Ethernet).
- The GlobalProtect VPN client must be installed on the device (this is standard for UA-managed computers).
Instructions
- Power on your computer. If prompted on the lower left of the login screen, select Other User.
- Look in the bottom right corner of your screen and click the Network icon (it looks like a globe if disconnected). Choose your local WiFi or Ethernet wired connection and connect to it:
- After connecting to a network, a VPN icon (a lock and key) will appear to the left of the network options icon. Click on it to set up the VPN.
Note: If you do not see the lock and key icon, restart your computer and try again. If the issue persists, please open a ticket with the Service Desk.
- A GlobalProtect prompt will appear. If the address bar is not auto-populated, type in the portal address: vpn.alaska.edu and click the arrow to connect.
- Enter your UA username and password, then complete the Duo multi-factor authentication prompt to log in.
- After a few moments, the screen will display "Connected." Click Back to return to the main Windows login screen, then log into the computer with your UA credentials.
Verification:
You are now connected to the VPN. You can proceed to sign in normally with your UA account username and password. The computer will cache your credentials for future offline access, so this process should not need to be repeated again unless you change your UA password and need to update it on the computer.
If you are still experiencing issues, please contact the NTS Service Desk.