Running the Contivity VPN Client

The Contivity VPN Client is a Windows application that creates a secure (encrypted) network path (channel) between your desktop and a server. It authenticates you on the basis of your Active Directory account. This document shows the series of steps (windows and dialog boxes) that you may encounter when successfully running the Contivity Client after it is downloaded and installed. In these examples "fashalt.unh.edu" is the name of the dedicated Contivity VPN Switch, a hardware box through which your network traffic is routed.

Step 1: Double-click the VPN Client shortcut on your desktop to start the program.
Step 2: Enter your Active Directory (AD) user name and password in the Contivity VPN Client window.
Step 3: You will see a small dialog box as your logon takes place.
Step 4: Another dialog box appears, telling you how to disconnect. You may want to check off the option so this message doesn't reappear.
Step 5: The Contivity VPN icon now appears in your taskbar, which is normally located in the lower right corner of the desktop. Use this icon to disconnect or to monitor your connection. When network traffic is flowing, the white parts of the icon turn green!

Almost all applications will continue to function after connecting or disconnecting from the VPN, however, very often they will slow down or pause for a short period of time and then return to normal speed. Outlook/Exchange is an example of this.
Step 6: The Contivity VPN Client Monitor box shows the status of your VPN connection and allows you to disconnect. Why would you disconnect? It is good practice to disconnect if you are shutting down or rebooting your system, otherwise you could get in a "dirty disconnect" situation upon reconnecting to the VPN. If that happens you will get a message about exceeding your maximum allowed connections (1) and it may take ten minutes to clear itself.
Step 7: When you choose to disconnect you get a small yes/no dialog box to confirm your choice.