VPN Instructions To access library and other NIU resources from off campus, you must do the following:
How do I get the VPN client?
The NIU ITS website has all the information you need for VPN connections.
I’ve configured the VPN client. How do I access the library resources?
Once you’ve configured the VPN client (a one-time process), click on the VPN icon created on your desktop screen. Enter your NIU issued AccountID and password. Once the system has verified you, open a web browser (Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, etc.) and proceed to the library’s home page: www.ulib.niu.edu
What is my NIU AccountID and password?
Students, your NIU Account ID is your Z-ID. If you have forgotten your password, please go to: password.niu.edu from any ITS Lab on campus or call 753-8100.
Who should I call if I have any problems or questions?
Please call the ITS Helpdesk at 753-8100. Walk-in assistance is also available by going to the ITS Contact Center in the Telecom/Security building, room 114 (TS 114). (There’s a red canopy over the door.)
Why is the library changing the authentication procedure?
With VPN, although you are off-campus, it will appear to the system that you are on-campus, so you should have fewer problems retrieving full text articles. It also eliminates the need to use your SSN to login to library resources, which further protects you from online fraud and identity theft.