Deakin’s VPN service is being upgraded – see what this means for you
As part of Deakin’s ongoing work to strengthen cybersecurity across the University, we are upgrading our Virtual Private Network (VPN) service and introducing Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA).
This means Cisco AnyConnect will be retired and replaced with Palo Alto GlobalProtect, a more secure and modern VPN solution.
This upgrade provides stronger, continuous protection on Deakin-managed devices and secure access for students using personal (BYOD) devices to access Deakin’s VPN.
What does this mean for you?
If you’re a student who uses Deakin’s VPN service on a campus-based device, here’s what you need to know.
| What’s happening | When | What you need to do |
| GlobalProtect is now installed on your device | Available now | You can begin using it immediately (search GlobalProtect in your Start Menu/Applications) |
| GlobalProtect will launch automatically at sign-in | From 15 December | Simply sign in as normal – GlobalProtect will connect in the background |
| Windows Hello / Platform SSO will auto-sign you in | From 15 December | No action needed if you already use these methods. If you don’t use Windows Hello or Platform SSO, you may occasionally be prompted to sign in when GlobalProtect connects. |
Do you use a personal device (BYOD)?
You will need to install the GlobalProtect VPN client. This will now be required when you’re accessing private systems both off and on campus. Access the Knowledge Base (KB) article for step-by-step instructions to install Global Protect.
Need some help?
Speak to our friendly IT staff who can help you sort it out! You can contact the IT Service Desk for personalised support from 8am–8pm Monday to Friday, and from 11am–5pm on weekends.