This article is for faculty and staff working off campus. It explains what the district VPN does, which systems actually require it, and how to get the GlobalProtect software. For step-by-step installation, see Setup VPN on Windows or Setup VPN on a Mac.
What the VPN is
The district uses the Palo Alto GlobalProtect VPN (a permanent replacement for the old Microsoft VPN). When connected, your computer reaches district systems as if it were on campus. You sign in with your CWID and MyPortal password, the same credentials you use everywhere else.
Try it without the VPN first. VPN capacity is not unlimited, and most everyday tools work fine without it. Connect to the VPN only when a system you need actually requires it — and disconnect when you're done.
Do I need the VPN for this?
Email, MyPortal, Office 365, Canvas
No — these work from anywhere.
Cisco Jabber (desktop or mobile district phone)
No.
Banner 9 / INB
Yes.
SARS
Yes.
VoIP Self Care Portal (set up call forwarding or Single Number Reach remotely)
Yes. The portal is at cucm-pub.voip.ad.fhda.edu/ucmuser.
If a system you use isn't listed, try it without the VPN first; if it can't connect from off campus, connect to the VPN and try again.
Get the software
- Log in to myportal.fhda.edu with your CWID and MyPortal password.
- Under the IT Tools card, find and click the GlobalProtect VPN link.
- You'll be taken to the ETS website to download the GlobalProtect installer appropriate for your computer (Windows or Mac).
Then follow the setup guide for your platform: Windows or Mac.
Get help
Submit a ticket at helpdesk.fhda.edu or call the ETS Call Center at (408) 864-8324 (x8324 on campus). Leave a callback number — most issues resolve over the phone.