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VPN (virtual private network) and Pulse Secure

Accessing the UHVPN

What is UHVPN?

UHVPN gives you access to University of Hertfordshire licensed services. Your device - wherever you may be - will appear as if it's connected to the University's network, enabling you to access the services that are otherwise only available on campus.

You are encouraged to use UHVPN whenever you use University services. You should always add the https:// prefix to URLs for websites that use your personal data.

https://vpnsetup.herts.ac.uk explains how to install and use the software required to access UHVPN.

When would I need to use UHVPN?
When you need to use services only available on campus and you are:

  • off campus
  • using your own device over WiFi on campus
  • you're told that you need to "go through the VPN"

How do I use UHVPN?
Follow the instructions at https://vpnsetup.herts.ac.uk

Remember you need to log in to the VPN services using your username@herts.ac.uk 

Once you have downloaded the VPN application you may have to look for it in your hidden icons tray (Windows PC).

hidden icons screen shot

Can I access services protected by the VPN without installing anything?

A limited range of the services available through the VPN can also be accessed at uhvpn.herts.ac.uk (Secure Access Service website).  Please note that the Remote Desktop service is unavailable through the Secure Access Service website.

VPN and multi-factor authentication (MFA)

How do I keep up to date?  The VPN application will occasionally prompt you to upgrade to the latest version of the software. 

August 2022 update:

The 'Pulse Secure VPN' service which many users will be very familiar with has been acquired by ‘ivanti’ and an update to the previous Pulse Secure mobile app name and logo is now rolling out.   

If you have the Pulse Secure VPN app downloaded on your mobile device, you may find it has already or will shortly update to the new name and logo. 
There is no need to call the Helpdesk and VPN access from your mobile device should continue to work as normal.
Further information regarding any changes to the desktop version will be provided in due course. 

new name and logo for the VPN app - Ivanti Secure Access Client

Windows 7 and Windows 8 devices.

  • From 01 March all Windows 7 (W7) and Windows 8.0 (W8) devices will be blocked from accessing the University Network through the VPN (virtual private network).
  • W7 and W8 devices are no longer supported by Microsoft and do not receive security updates.  Unsupported devices such as these present a security risk to our University and must not be used to access any University systems.  
  • In order to identify these devices and block them from our network, the VPN service must check every device before allowing access, regardless of your device operating system.

Staff and students using the VPN app should not notice any difference and we recommend this as the best way to access the VPN

Staff and students using the web browser version of the VPN (uhvpn.herts.ac.uk) will need to follow the on-screen instructions to allow the host checker software to download to your device.  This may take a few minutes.

You will need to have an up-to-date version of java on your device and may also be prompted to update this before proceeding.

Need help?

Please contact the Helpdesk if you need help getting set up: 

Please be alert for fraudulent emails, spam, phishing attacks, and unexpected pop-up messages on your device.

Contact Us

Helpdesk - Library and Computing Services

Library and Computing Services

Today - Open 24 Hours
Please refer to the LCS Service Status page for updates on service availability. https://status.herts.ac.uk. Online and telephone support is available 08:00 to 18:00 Monday - Friday with telephone support only available outside of these times