VPN Access to UZH
Table of contents
The UZH Virtual Private Network (VPN) allows students and staff to securely access the internal UZH network - from home or on the go.
What is VPN?
- VPN encrypts your internet connection – even on public networks.
- This allows you to access internal UZH systems that are otherwise only accessible on campus.
Important:
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) protects access, but does not prevent data from being read. Only VPN encryption prevents third parties from viewing your data traffic.
User Groups and Devices
1. Own Devices (Mac/Windows)
Step-by-step instructions:
- Log in with your UZH login to the VPN download page
- Download the appropriate installer:
- Windows: Windows 64-bit
- macOS: Mac OS
- Install the PulseSecureAppLauncher file, then PulseSecure.
- Open the Ivanti Secure Access Client.
- Click on «+» and enter:
- Type: Policy Secure (UAC) or Connect Secure (VPN)
- Name: UZH VPN
- Server: https://remoteaccess.uzh.ch/vpn
- Connect with your UZH login.
Notes for macOS:
- When prompted for a certificate, select the «Kerberos» certificate.
- If necessary, enable installation under System Preferences > Privacy & Security.
- If you see the message «Please enter a valid ICS URL.» see VPN-FAQ 2.
Tip:
If you are unable to access e-resources (e.g., journals, databases), use EZproxy access (german) instead.
2. Managed Devices (provided by Central IT)
- The Ivanti client is already installed.
- Open the client via the Start menu or taskbar.
- Select connection: «UZH VPN» → «Connect».
- Install software manually:
- Windows/Mac: via the company portal.
3. Linux Systems (e.g., Ubuntu)
UZH does not offer official support for Linux. You can find sample instructions in the
4. Mobile Devices (iOS/Android)
Note for students:
VPN access does not work for e-resources (e-journals, databases).
Please use browser-based access via EZproxy for this purpose!
Setup:
- Install the Ivanti Secure Access Client app from the App Store/Play Store.
- Create a connection:
- Name: UZH VPN
- Server: https://remoteaccess.uzh.ch/vpn
- Typ: Policy Secure (UAC) or Connect Secure (VPN)
- Allow network access:
- iOS: Enter code
- Android: Grant access after MFA prompt
- Log in: Email + password → Confirm MFA
- Connection status:
- iOS: [VPN] icon in status bar
- Android: Key and Ivanti icon
Additional Information
- VPN sessions expire after 12 hours or 1 hour of inactivity.
- Maximum of 3 simultaneous devices per user.
- Updates are performed automatically on managed devices or via the app store.
- System requirements:
Help and Support
- Technical support:
- support@zi.uzh.ch | 044 63 43333
- Further information: