Audience: Fullerton College staff
Overview: The Fullerton College Virtual Private Network (VPN) uses FortiClient VPN (version 7.2 or higher) to provide secure remote access to on-campus resources, such as Banner, Softphones, Remote Desktop, and SARS. VPN is not required for Microsoft 365 services (e.g., email, Teams, OneDrive). Access is granted case-by-case with manager approval. This article explains how to request, install, configure, log into, and uninstall the VPN.
Prerequisites
- Approval from your immediate manager/supervisor for VPN access.
- A completed VPN request form: https://forms.office.com/r/LvUDXy5sL6.
- A compatible district issued device (Windows or MacOS) with internet access.
- Your FCNet credentials (e.g., [email protected]) and MFA setup (Microsoft Authenticator or SMS).
- Administrative privileges on your device to install software.
Instructions
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Obtain Manager Approval:
- Contact your immediate manager/supervisor to confirm your need for VPN access (e.g., for Banner, Remote Desktop).
- Provide details of the on-campus resources you require.
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Submit the Request Form and an ACT service request:
- Visit https://forms.office.com/r/LvUDXy5sL6.
- Fill out the forms required fields, including your FCNet email, job role, and justification.
- Visit https://fullcoll.selfservice.vivantio.com/ Request VPN access, notate if the form has been completed, and include your manager’s approval (e.g., email confirmation or their name for verification).
- Submit the form and an ACT ticket.
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Wait for Approval:
- ACT will review the request with your manager and notify you via email within 5–10 business days.
- If approved, you’ll receive instructions to proceed with installation/access.
As of 2025: Windows 10 devices will still need to have VPN installed (Step 2). Devices on Windows 11 should come preinstalled with the VPN feature (Step 3).
1. Check Existing Version:
- Open FortiClient VPN (if installed) and click the Information icon in the menu bar.
- Verify the version is 7.2 or higher. If lower, uninstall first (see Step 4).
2. Download FortiClient:
- Based on your operating system, download from:
- The file saves to your Downloads folder by default.
3. Install the Software:
- Open the downloaded file.
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Windows:
- Select Yes in the setup window, then Next.
- Click Install, then Finish.
- Reboot your system when prompted.
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MacOS:
- Double-click the .dmg file and follow prompts.
- Drag FortiClient to the Applications folder.
- Reboot (Restart) your system.
4. Verify Installation:
- Launch FortiClient VPN from your desktop or Applications folder.
- Check the Information menu to confirm version 7.2 or higher.
1. Open FortiClient VPN:
- Launch the FortiClient VPN application.
- Check the acknowledgment statement and select I accept.
2. Configure VPN Settings:
- Click Configure VPN.
- Enter the following:
- VPN: choose SSL-VPN
- Connection Name: FcNet
- Remote Gateway: fcvpn.fullcoll.edu
- Check Enable Single Sign On (SSO) for VPN Tunnel.
- Click Save.
3. Log In:
- Select SAML Login.
- Enter your FCNet credentials (e.g., [email protected] and password).
- Complete MFA verification (e.g., approve Microsoft Authenticator notification, enter SMS code).
- You are now connected to the Fullerton College VPN.
4. Access Resources:
- Use on-campus resources (e.g., Banner, Remote Desktop, SARS) as needed.
- Disconnect from VPN when finished by clicking Disconnect in FortiClient.
1. Access Settings:
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Windows:
- Open the Start menu and select Settings (cogwheel icon).
- Go to Apps.
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MacOS:
- Open System Settings > Applications.
2. Uninstall:
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Windows:
- Find FortiClient VPN in the list and select Uninstall.
- Follow prompts and reboot if prompted.
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MacOS:
- Drag FortiClient from Applications to the Trash.
- Empty the Trash and reboot.
3. Reinstall (If Upgrading or Troubleshooting):
- Return to Step 2 to install the latest version.
Notes
- Usage: VPN is only for on-campus resources (e.g., Banner, Softphones). Office 365, Teams, and MyGateway use HTTPS and don’t require VPN.
- Out-of-Country Access: For Microsoft 365 access abroad, submit a vacation request through the service request system to whitelist your location. VPN cannot be used abroad.
- Processing Time: VPN requests take 5–10 business days, longer during peak periods (e.g., semester starts).
- Security: Do not use personal VPNs (e.g., NordVPN) with NOCCCD resources, as they may trigger account lockouts (see How to Stay Safe Using Personal VPNs).
- Policy Compliance: VPN usage must follow NOCCCD’s Acceptable Use Policy.
- System Requirements: Ensure your campus issued device meets FortiClient’s requirements (e.g., Windows 10+, MacOS 11+).
FAQs
Who qualifies for VPN access?
Staff performing duties requiring on-campus resources (e.g., Banner, Remote Desktop) with manager approval.
Why don’t I need VPN for Office 365?
Office 365 uses HTTPS encryption, making VPN unnecessary unless accessing on-campus resources.
What if I get a connection error?
Verify FortiClient version (7.2+), recheck configuration (fcvpn.fullcoll.edu), and ensure MFA is working. Contact ACT if issues persist.
How do I know if my FortiClient version is outdated?
Open FortiClient, click the Information icon, and check the version. Uninstall and reinstall if below 7.2.
What if my VPN request is denied?
ACT will email the reason (e.g., insufficient justification). Resubmit with additional details or manager approval.
Support
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (714) 992-7111
- In-Person: Building 500, Room 517, during business hours