VPN (GWireless) FAQ
What is VPN (GWireless)?
VPN (GWireless) is web-based software which can be used for off-campus access or on-campus wireless access. For off-campus access, VPN (GWireless) allows your computer to function as though it is on the GWU campus and therefore allows you to access most databases, e-texts, and e-journals without additional logins. For on-campus wireless access, VPN (GWireless) allows you to login to GWU's network to obtain Internet access.
VPN (GWireless) replaced the downloadable VPN at GWU, although the downloadable VPN continues to work (with the exception of the Vista operating system) and users who have installed it may continue to use it.
How do I login to VPN (GWireless)?
To login to VPN (GWireless), access the VPN (GWireless) website , then login with your GW NetID, the username and password associated with your GWMail or CMail account.
GW faculty, staff, and students who do not have a GWNet ID (GWMail or CMail login/password) can obtain one from the GW Help Desk Account Center. Users who experience difficulty may consult these instructions.
Do I need to download and install software to use VPN (GWireless)?
VPN (GWireless) is web-based software. VPN (GWireless) will automatically run the necessary software on your computer. If you are using a computer that you do not own, the computer may be configured so that you cannot use VPN (GWireless).
I have a copy of the VPN which I downloaded to my computer. Will it still work?
Yes, if you have a copy of the downloadable VPN, it will still work. You can continue to use the downloadable VPN, or you can use the web-based VPN (GWireless).
Faculty and staff who wish to access secure systems (e.g. Banner, etc.) should continue to use the downloable VPN. The downloable VPN does not work with the Vista operating system.
How can I access Himmelfarb Library's databases, e-texts, and e-journals using VPN (GWireless)?
VPN (GWireless) works by allowing your computer to function as though it is on the GWU campus. Therefore, you can access Himmelfarb Library's databases, e-texts, and e-journals directly from Himmelfarb Library's website without any additional logins.
I'm using VPN (GWireless) but can't get into Himmelfarb Library's databases, e-texts, and e-journals or the GWU network. What should I do?
- Check that you are logged into VPN (GWireless). In order for VPN (GWireless) to work, you need to access the VPN (GWireless) website and login each time you use it.
- Check that your popup blocker is turned off. In order for VPN (GWireless) to run, your pop-up blocker should be turned off or set to permit pop-ups from gwu.edu.
- Check that VPN (GWireless) is connected. VPN (GWireless) may logoff automatically after periods of inactivity. If this occurs, you will need to login again. To check if VPN (GWireless) is running:
- Look in the lower right-hand corner of your computer screen. The VPN (GWireless) is represented by an icon that looks like a yellow padlock. If the padlock is in the closed position, then the VPN (GWireless) is running. If the padlock is in the open position, then the VPN (GWireless) is not running.
- Macintosh users can check the Network Connect Window .
Which browsers and operating systems work with VPN (GWireless)?
When logging on to VPN (GWireless), users should use Internet Explorer 6 or Safari. Once connected, users may access the web using an alternate web browser, such as Mozilla Firefox. VPN (GWireless) does not work with Firefox 3.
I'm having trouble accessing or running VPN (GWireless). Who can I contact for assistance?
- Students can contact Student Technology Services at 202-994-7041 or sts@gwu.edu.
- Faculty and staff can contact the GW Help Desk at 202-994-5530 option 2 or ithelp@gwu.edu.