Starting October 28th, 2025, the VIU IT department has made changes to include 2-Step Verification (2SV) in the VPN sign-on procedure. Going forward, users will need to perform a 2SV check before connecting to VPN using whatever method they have previously configured. This check will present itself after the user enters their password and clicks Connect. It is a requirement that 2SV is completed before every connection to the VPN, so there is no 30-day grace period between 2SV authentications.
Frequently asked questions
- Why was this change made?
The VIU Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an essential tool for allowing users to access network resources like Remote Desktop or shared network resources from anywhere in the world. Once connected to the VPN, VIU users are for all intents and purposes working like they are connected physically to VIU's network infrastructure on campus. This level of connection confers access and presents security considerations that are not present in typical web-based applications. In order to protect employee and student information and security, this is a necessary change.
- Why do I have to Authenticate via 2SV every time I connect?
Normal 2-Step Verification rules dictate that users are only challenged form 2SV authentication periodically. The VPN is the exception to this rule, as the consequences of a security breach on this tool can have significant impact.
- Do I need to do anything differently?
No. 2-Step Verification has been in place since 2022 at VIU and the VPN gets regular use by employees and certain student groups. If you are familiar with both of the process of performing a 2SV authentication and connecting to the VPN, this change simply brings the two together.
- I have an exception for 2SV on my account or have not set it up yet, can I still use VPN?
No. 2SV is required to access VPN.
- Where can I find more information on 2-Step Verification?
This page outlines VIU's 2-Step Verification policy and lays out how to set it up and use it.
- Where can I find more information on VIU's VPN?
This page outlines VIU's VPN service and provides links to instructions on how to use it on Windows, Mac, or mobile devices.