This is probably a dumb question, but is the UCI VPN like a regular VPN? Or is it only used to access the library and other UCI resources? My high school had a “VPN” but it was similar to a wifi connection and it only gave us access to certain school systems. It didn’t actually shield the IP address or location or anything.
For example, if I want to have a secure connection online I would normally use something like NordVPN. So can I use the UCI VPN for online web browsing and protecting my online identity?
Also how secure is the VPN? I know it’s encrypted but is there any chance of the university being able to access your data or know your search history? I have actually heard of VPN’s having the ability to do this in certain cases so I just wanted to know in case I wanted to login to my bank account or something that is important.
If you need to connect to UCInet from off campus, the Virtual Private Network (VPN) is the solution for you. The VPN allows you to securely connect to vital campus resources like the UCI Libraries and KFS (Kuali Financial System) by encrypting the information you are sending over the network, protecting your data. In addition, it enables authorized users to mount network file shares from off campus.
You can use it like a regular VPN through UCIFull, but since you have to log in, you’re not anonymous. It’s mainly for accessing on campus resources. But it’s also helpful if you’re in a country where sites are blocked. And there’s a free streaming service for college students that you use it for. You absolutely can’t use it for peer to peer sharing or illegal activities because they will hunt you down.
I think I might be confused, but I didn’t see it mention general use for the VPN (non-UCI use). It mostly talks about how to use the VPN to access the library and other utilities, so like the “high school VPN” I mentioned in my post.
In summary, it’s probably not meant for general web-browsing use.
They will know your search history. Bank and such websites are pretty secure, so they’ll know you went there, but it’s unlikely they’ll get your password or other account info. You’re better off always checking for HTTPS anyway, regardless of the network you use.
Can you elaborate on the free streaming service? What is that?
I used it whenever I’m abroad to access the U.S catalogue on legal streaming services and I’ve never gotten an angry email.
I haven’t used it but there was a thread on it a while back.
yeah that makes a lot more sense. thanks