Getting Connected with the UMBC GlobalProtect VPN

• Use the UMBC VPN service to access network resources that normally require on-campus access, even if you're away from campus.
• When you are connected to the VPN service, all communication with UMBC campus network resources is sent through the VPN, over a secure encrypted connection.
• With a few exceptions, only traffic to the UMBC network goes through the VPN connection. Access to outside websites goes over your regular internet connection.
• If you just want to access a web page that requires on-campus access (journals, etc.), you don't have to use the VPN client software; you can browse to the page via the VPN web page.

These instructions are for downloading the software on Windows or macOS. For iOS or Android devices, you can download client software from the iOS App Store and Google Play Store, respectively. Upon installing the software, enter gpvpn.umbc.edu when prompted for a portal address. You should then be able to sign in with your UMBC username/password, and use the mobile app to connect/disconnect. For more detailed instructions, see

Using GlobalProtect VPN with Apple iOS Devices or

Using GlobalProtect VPN with Android Devices

ChromeBook/ChromeOS Users:

Download the GlobalProtect App from the Chrome Store and click Add to Chrome. Follow the prompts to install it. Then,

1. Click on the GlobalProtect icon in the Launcher.
2. When prompted for the Portal address, enter gpvpn.umbc.edu . Click Add Connection.
3. Click on the status area in the bottom-right corner of the screen to pop up a menu.
4. Select VPN Disconnected, then click on the entry for gpvpn.umbc.edu.
5. When prompted, enter your UMBC username/password to connect. 

If you are using macOS Catalina (10.15), you may see an alert that the software requests access to your Documents, Downloads, and Desktop folders. You can either choose to permit or deny this, and the software should work regardless.

On recent versions of macOS (10.13+), you may see a message after installation that the system extension was blocked. To enable it, follow these steps:

1. From your Mac endpoint, launch System Preferences.
2. Open the Security & Privacy preferences and then select General.
3. Click the lock icon on the bottom left of the window to make changes and modify preferences.
4. When prompted, enter your Mac User Name and Password and then Unlock the preferences.
5. Click "Allow" next to the message "System software from developer "Palo Alto Networks" was blocked from loading."

In macOS Ventura, you may need to toggle on the Global Protect app under the system setting> under the "Privacy & security" tab> full disk access before being able to see the Global Protect app under Files and Folders.