Overview
UCSF Pulse Secure VPN can be accessed by (1) using the Pulse Secure VPN client on your computer or smartphone client or (2) using the VPN web portal. All methods require that you have a UCSF Active Directory account and Duo two-factor authentication. See VPN Web Portal for more details.
The Pulse Secure VPN installed client is an application that runs on your desktop, laptop or mobile device and allows you to connect directly to the UCSF network as if you were on campus. When you are connected to the UCSF network, all your applications will work the same way they do when you are on campus.
Because locally installed Pulse Secure VPN client simplifies access when you aren't on campus, it's a good idea to make it your first choice when connecting remotely. More information about how to Install and Use Pulse Secure VPN Client (Windows & Mac) is available, or contact the IT Service Desk for assistance.
When to use Pulse Secure VPN
Use of the Pulse Secure VPN client is required to run:
- A full desktop email client, such as Microsoft Outlook or Apple Mail, from your desktop or laptop
- A terminal session to access a server's command line
- A remote desktop session initiated to connect to another computer at UCSF
The Pulse Secure VPN client is not required to use:
Connect on mobile devices
Download Pulse Secure from Google Play or the App Store to connect using Apple iPads, Apple iPhones or Android devices. See VPN Web Portal for more details.
Connect via the UCSF web portal
The UCSF VPN web portal is your alternative method for accessing UCSF applications when you are on a non-UCSF computer and you cannot download or install local Pulse Secure VPN client. See VPN Web Portal for more details.
Important: The web VPN portal is only an alternative tool to access limited internal resources and does not provide the same full functionality and access as the locally installed Pulse Secure VPN client. We recommend installing Pulse Secure VPN client via software.ucsf.edu on nonpublic computers you use for UCSF work whenever possible. This is a one-time install.
You can find more information about the VPN web portal on our VPN Frequently Asked Questions page, or call the IT Service Desk for assistance at 415-514-4100.
Need more help?
Online: IT Service Desk
Phone: 415-514-4100
