VPN - Accessing the Ensign TechLab VPN network and troubleshooting steps

Troubleshooting steps on VPN connection

Issues Resolved by This Article

1. Unable to connect to the Ensign TechLab VPN

2. GlobalProtect VPN not installed or not working correctly

3. Authentication or credential issues when connecting to VPN

4. Incorrect portal configuration in GlobalProtect

5. VPN connection failures due to outdated client or password issues

 

Important:

Starting Fall 2024, you must download the latest version of the GlobalProtect agent. Older versions will not work.

You will be redirected to the Church’s Okta authentication page.
Log in using your student credentials.

Once logged in, you will see a download page. Select the agent that matches your operating system:

Windows 10 / Windows 11: Select Windows 64-bit GlobalProtect Agent

macOS: Select the appropriate Mac agent

Ensign College (on-campus students):
👉 https://vpn.ensign.edu

BYU-Pathway (online students):
👉 https://vpn.byupathway.edu

This article provides step-by-step instructions to install, configure, and troubleshoot the GlobalProtect VPN for both Ensign College and BYU-Pathway students.

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Background

The Ensign TechLab VPN allows students to securely access internal lab resources from off-campus locations. Access is provided through the GlobalProtect VPN client by Palo Alto Networks.

Starting Fall Semester 2024, a new version of the GlobalProtect agent is required. Older versions will not allow a successful VPN connection. Students must download the correct client version and authenticate using their Church / school credentials.

This article applies to both Ensign College and BYU-Pathway students using Windows devices.

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Solution

Follow the steps below carefully to install and connect to the Ensign TechLab VPN.

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Step 1: Download the GlobalProtect VPN Client

Go to the appropriate VPN portal based on your student status:

Step 2: Install GlobalProtect

1. After downloading, install the GlobalProtect agent on your device.

2. Once installed, open the application by searching for “GlobalProtect” in your system’s search bar.

 

Step 3: Configure the VPN Portal and Connect

When the GlobalProtect app opens (bottom-right of your screen):

1. In the Portal field, enter:

   • vpn.ensign.edu → Ensign College students

   • vpn.byupathway.edu → BYU-Pathway students

2. Click Connect.

Step 4: Authenticate

If prompted for credentials:

• Username: Your full school email address

  • example@ensign.edu

  • example@byupathway.edu

• Password: Your current school password (NETID)

You may see a Single Sign-On (SSO) prompt.

 

Step 5: Verify Connection Settings

After connecting:

1. Open GlobalProtect Settings.

2. Confirm your VPN status matches the example shown below.

Step 6: Password Reset (If Connection Fails)

If the VPN connection fails, you may need to reset your NETID password.

For Ensign College students:

1. Go to the Ensign College website

2. Navigate to Quick Links

3. Select Reset my NETID Password
   👉 https://www.ensign.edu/quick-links

For BYU-Pathway students:

• Log in to the BYU-Pathway student portal

• Follow the instructions to reset your NETID password

After resetting your password:

• Ensure it meets complexity requirements:

  • Minimum 10 characters

  • At least 1 uppercase letter

  • At least 1 number

  • At least 1 special character

Final Notes

• Always use the latest GlobalProtect client

• Ensure the correct portal address is configured

• Use your official school credentials

• Power-cycle the application if changes were made