Accessing MFA, VPN, Shared Drive and OneDrive
Working From Off-Campus Locations as an Individual
Microsoft Authenticator (MFA):
Microsoft Authenticator is a multifactor authentication application. All employees must set up Microsoft Authenticator in order to access Howard systems remotely. The purpose of MFA is to ensure users are authorized for remote connections to the Howard University network. This authenticator helps to safeguard against cyber vulnerabilities. Microsoft Authenticator represents the first step in gaining remote access.
To enroll in Microsoft Authenticator, follow the instructions at https://aka.ms/ssprsetup.
VPN:
Virtual Private Networks (VPN) provide a secure connection to the Howard University network. As with all networked services, and in alignment with the University’s hardened security strategy, VPN services are currently available to the members of the campus community whose devices have been whitelisted.
Your device was whitelisted if:
- You recently received a new laptop from ETS; or
- Your computer was reimaged by a member of the ETS team.
This product will allow you to access share/mapped drives, intranet websites, etc.
When trying to access the video tutorials, please make sure you have “cookies” enabled on your web browser.
How To Install VPN on Windows - PDF | Video
How To Install VPN on MAC - PDF | Video
Install on Non-Howard Issued PC - Video
The Howard University VPN client connection is provided for authorized network access to equipment and devices assigned for Howard University business use. Connection to this system is your notice of, and agreement to comply with, the University’s acceptable use policy.
To properly use this VPN, you must authenticate your registration through two-factor authentication (2FA) and NOT the DUO mobile application, as was previously the case. This means that a mobile phone is required in order to set up 2FA.
Password resets are also required for system authorization. If you already reset your password when you were initially asked to do so, you will not need to reset your password once more. Details on how to reset your password may be found here .
Please note: All activity on the VPN may be monitored for user authentication, system maintenance and security verification. Audits are routinely conducted by Howard University Enterprise Technology Services to test the strength and sustainability of our system.
Being Productive and Accessing Data & Files Remotely
Microsoft OneDrive:
OneDrive is a cloud-based file system. All members of the Howard University community have access to OneDrive through Microsoft Outlook. This is a secure, online location for all your University documents/files. Similar to “Dropbox,” Google drive, etc., your OneDrive account can be accessed from any web browser. We recommend moving all files located on your desktop or laptop to your OneDrive prior to leaving campus. This way, you will be able to access files remotely.
The following videos will familiarize you with OneDrive.
This Is OneDrive - Video
How To Use OneDrive - Video
OneDrive Tips and Tricks - Video
Share/Mapped Drives:
Share/mapped drives are departmental files that you access while at work. To access these files off-campus, you must set up a share/mapped drive on your laptop. Remember, you must log into DUO and Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility before accessing or setting up a share/mapped drive.
Instructions for Setting Up Mapped/Shared Drives - PDF
AVD Connectivity and Access:
The Remote Desktop Application is used to access the Azure Virtual Desktops (AVD resource).
Subscribe to the AVD application after you download the Remote Desktop Application.
Download the Remote Desktop Application and subscribe to the AVD application on an Apple device.
Launch the PuTTy application once you are inside of your AVD.