Windows 8.1 VPN Setup for your Home Computer
This setup guide can be followed to either create or delete a VPN connection to Plymouth University’s network. This guide will assume that you are connected to the internet via cable (Ethernet) or Wi-Fi. If you are on the Plymouth University network “Eduroam” and need access to additional resources you will need to set-up a VPN connection.
What is a VPN and why do I need it?
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network and is a ‘tunnel’ or connection into the University’s network; so setting up the VPN connection on a home PC/Laptop allows you to connect to the University’s network to access resources such as network drives (Shared Areas) from anywhere.
Setting up the VPN
Creating the VPN connection will be split into two different stages; Stage 1 will guide through creating the connection on the PC, and Stage 2 will walk through configuring the connection to allow internet access. This entire document can be followed in under 10 minutes.
Stage 1: Creating the Connection
1. Go into Windows 8 search screen by pressing the Windows key + F, or swiping down the
2. When in the search menu type “VPN” and select “Set up a virtual private connection”
3. In the Internet address field type “vpn.plymouth.ac.uk” and Destination name field type “Plymouth
4. Now that the VPN has been created you will need to connect to the VPN. You should see the above
panel. (To access the connection at any time click on the network icon in the Notification Area)
6. To ensure the connection is correctly set-up, enter UOPNET\ in the username field followed by your
University username (e.g. uopnet\jbloggs), and password then click ok
Stage 2: Configuring the Connection
1. Now that the connection has been setup we need to configure the connection to allow internet
access; Go into Windows search menu and Search for “internet options”
3. Tick the “Use automatic configuration script” option and type this in the Address field:
http://wpad.plymouth.ac.uk/wpad.dat
In the “Dial-up Settings” your username and password should be shown, as well as the domain “UOPNET”
4. Now click Ok, then Ok
5. Now the VPN connection will be configured for internet access. To test the connection, connect to the VPN and open your web browser and try to access Google or another website. If the website
loads, the VPN connection has been configured correctly. If not see the next section for troubleshooting.
VPN Troubleshooting
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Ensure you are connected to the internet and can access websites prior to setting up the VPN,else the connection will fail
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Make sure you have entered the correct details; double-check your University credentials in theInternet Options screen (Stage 2)
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Delete the VPN connection and create it again to ensure that you have entered the right information•
If you are receiving connection errors make sure the details have been entered correctly in stage 1•
If you have a Virgin Superhub please contact the Service Desk on 01752 588588 for assistance, as there is a known issue with the Hub and the VPN ConnectionDeleting the VPN
To delete the connection either for troubleshooting above or because it is no longer required follow the below quick steps to remove it:
3. In the list of network adapters, using your mouse, right-click on the “Plymouth University VPN” connection and click Delete