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MCC Daily Tribune

Technology Tips - VPN, remote desktop - what's it all about?

VPN stands for virtual private network. Think of it as a private highway for Internet traffic. Only authorized people (MCC employees) can use the MCC VPN. It allows us to send and receive data like we were directly wired in to the campus network. It is a secure way to transfer data.

At MCC we use Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client for our VPN.

There are a number of programs that you can use by simply signing into the VPN:

  • Argos Reports
  • Banner 9 (was INB)
  • Banner Workflow
  • ePrint
  • Web FOCUS
  • TYPO3

Remote Desktop (or RDP) is a program that allows a person to connect and use a computer that is physically in another location (remote) as if it was local (where you are). You must be connected to the VPN using Cisco AnyConnect before you can remote in to your MCC desktop.

Some programs require you to be on your remote desktop to use:

  • M: Drive files, with continuous access to many files in many folders *(use acronis.monroecc.edu to just upload/download a few files to/from m-drive)
  • Microsoft Office programs on my PC at WORK
  • Perceptive Content (was Image Now)
  • Programs installed on my PC at WORK
  • Programs needing a Fixed IP Address
  • Skype for Business on my WORK PC

There are a number of programs that you can use simply by using your local browser (such as Chrome). See MCC Offsite Access for a detailed listing of MCC Systems and what you need to use them at home.

The following do *not* require Cisco AnyConnect (VPN) or Remote Desktop:

  • Accessing information about the College from the website (www.monroecc.edu/depts/cns/accessing-mcc-systems-off-campus/)
  • Banner Self-Service
  • Blackboard
  • Compliance Assist (now Planning)
  • Degree Works
  • Dynamic Forms
  • *M: Drive files, a few at a time (Use acronis.monroecc.edu - works with Apple. All M Drive folders (MCC, Courses, Banner, Facilities, Offices, Users-go to folder of surname initial)
  • MyMCC
  • Starfish
  • Submit a Tech Request
  • Submit/Approve a Time Card
  • Submit/Approve a Time Off Request
  • WordPress to edit college webpages
  • U: Drive files, really M:\Users (use acronis.monroecc.edu--go to Users, then folder of surname initial, then alphabetically by account)
  • Voicemail from my Work phone number
  • Zoom from my HOME PC/Laptop

Ann Penwarden
Computing & Information Technology Services
04/23/2020