​VPN stands for Virtual Private Networking. VPN allows for a secure remote connection to UWSP network resources.  For example, off-campus access to restricted databases and systems should be accessed through a VPN connection.

IMPORTANT: to successfully set up your VPN connection you must also set your connection Properties. To do this, ensure that you also complete the instructions beginning at step 10.

Set Up VPN on Windows 10

  1. Click the Windows Start button and select the Settings cog.


  2. Under Windows Settings, select Network & Internet.​​


  3. Select VPN from the left menu, then at the right, click Add a VPN connection.


  4. In the dialog box that opens:

  5. Set VPN provider to "Windows (built-in)".

  6. Set Connection name to "UWSP VPN".

  7. Set Server name or address to "vpn.uwsp.edu".

  8. Click Save.


  9. Select Change adapter options.


  10. Right-click UWSP VPN and select Properties.


  11. In the UWSP VPN Properties box select the Networking tab.  Select Internet Protocol Version 6 and click Properties.


  12. Click Advanced on the Internet Protocol Version 6 Properties box that opens.

  13. In the Advanced TCP/IP Settings box:

    •  uncheck “Use default gateway…” on the IP Settings tab.

    • Note: this step is needed only for privately owned computers; UWSP owned computers do not need this option. Select the DNS tab.  In the text box labeled “DNS suffix for this connection:” type, “uwsp.edu” (no quotes). Note, "Append these DNS suffixes" may instead display here.

  14. Click OK.

  15. Click OK to the Internet Protocol Version 6 Properties box. This returns you to the UWSP VPN Properties box.

  16. In the UWSP VPN Properties box now select Internet Protocol Version 4 and click Properties.

  17. Click Advanced on the Internet Protocol Version 4 Properties box.

  18. In the Advanced TCP/IP Settings box on the IP Settings tab, uncheck “Use default gateway…”.

  19. Click OK.

  20. Click OK to the Advanced box and OK to the Internet Protocol Version 4 Properties box.

  21. Finally, click OK on the UWSP VPN Properties box.  

You have now disabled the default gateway for both Internet Protocol Version 6 and version 4.  Your UWSP VPN should be configured.

To start a UWSP VPN connection

  1. Click the Windows Start button and select Settings.

  2. Under Windows Settings, select Network & Internet.

  3. Select VPN from the left menu, then at the right, click "UWSP VPN".

  4. Click "Connect" and log in with your UWSP username and password. You will be asked to authenticate with MFA.


Have questions?  Please contact the Service Desk.