Using Brown's Computing Resources Remotely

Who is this for?

If you need to access Brown resources from home or while you're traveling, this guide will help you get connected.

Some Brown resources are easily accessible from any internet connection, but others require some configuration.

You will see the term VPN throughout this page. A VPN is a "virtual private network" - a technology that allows you to create a secure connection to the Brown network. Use of some Brown services off-campus requires a VPN connection. More information and installation instructions can be found at the bottom of this page.


Email

Outlook Web Access

Check your email from any computer with an internet connection by visiting email.brown.edu. For best results, use Internet Explorer as your browser. Outlook Web Access is the easiest and fastest way to read email from off-campus.

If you are having trouble logging into Outlook Web Access, please contact your department to confirm that you can access your email this way.

Email Clients

If you prefer to use a email client such as Outlook or Entourage, refer to these instructions for configuring your email client for off-campus use. We recommend you try Outlook Web Access (above) first since it requires no setup.


Brown-Licensed Software

If you've downloaded software from Brown's Software Distribution web page, check the software page to see if either of the symbols below appear next to the software you are trying to use. Also read the individual software application's "About" file for specific licensing limitations.

Keyed Software

Requires KeyAccess  You must have KeyAccess installed and be connected to the Brown University campus KeyServer to download and run keyed applications. You must also have VPN software installed and a connection made prior to using the software. For instructions, see the bottom of this page.

License Managed Software

License Managed  Though license-managed software does not require Key Access, depending on the application, you may need a VPN connection (see below) to use the software. Application specific details can be found on each application's page on the Brown Software Distribution web page.


Library eResources

Campus-restricted library eResources are available remotely by logging into WebVPN at webvpn.brown.edu. More information and instructions are available here. You could also use the VPN client (below) to access library eResources, but WebVPN is simpler because it requires no installation.


VPN Connection

Certain services such as keyed software may require you to have a VPN connection - a secure connection to the Brown network. To do this, you must download software from Brown's software site and use it to connect to the internet.

Windows

Macintosh


Need Assistance?

If, after reading this page, you have questions about accessing Brown resources off-campus, you can contact the Help Desk: