On Tuesday 27 June 2023, Digital and Technology Services (DTS) upgraded the Fortinet VPN service to the latest software and improved the authentication process.

What has changed?

As part of the update, we have simplified connection settings and the authentication process. Previously there were two connection types – SSL and IPsec – now we just use SSL and have enable Single Sign-On (SSO).

SSO uses the standard Microsoft 365 sign-in as currently used for all Microsoft services and you will be asked to enter your university email and password and authenticate with MFA as usual. To use Single Sign-On, all VPN users must upgrade the FortiClient software to version 7.

What is the difference with the new configuration?

• The key change of the VPN update is the new SSO feature within the latest FortiClient software.
• From Tuesday 27 June, you will need to set up a new VPN connection and tick the ‘Enable Single Sign On (SSO) for VPN Tunnel’. Once set you will then sign in using your Microsoft 365 credentials.
• Instructions for all device types can be found on the VPN Workspace site.

Please note, from Tuesday 27 June, we no longer support third-party or lightweight VPN clients due to the changes with authentication.

What do I need to do?

If you do not use the VPN service, then there is no action. Otherwise please ensure you are using FortiClient VPN version 7 as a minimum, this applies to all devices (both personal and university owned).

If using a university Windows-managed device, the VPN software can be installed via the Company Portal and the new VPN configuration will be added automatically.

For all other devices, including macOS and Linux, instructions on how to update the software and VPN configuration is on Workspace.

Need help?

If you have any questions, or require any support, please contact the IT Service Desk.

Thank you for your understanding and support during this update.