Access from Off Campus - BML

Most of our e-journals and databases are restricted so that only current UCSD faculty, staff, and students can use them from off-campus. In order to get access to these resources from an off-campus computer, you need to connect your computer to the UCSD network.

There are two different ways to do this, depending on what you need and what kind of network account you have. Please note: there are two different login mechanisms available, depending on what kind of account you have. The library is not in a position to obtain or check logins on behalf of users.

1. Proxy server

• Basics: If all you need to use is web-based resources such as e-journals, e-reserves and web-based databases, this is the easiest and most popular solution.
• Technical requirements: you will change one setting in your web browser - use the link below and follow the path to the browser you use.
• Login requirements: for students use your normal login. For staff/faculty this uses your "UCSD Network" username and password, which you may have heard called "Kerberos." Login information is here.
• Link to details for Proxy Server

2. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

• Basics: This will let you use both web-based and non-web based resources. The latter include things like some campus business systems, SciFinder Scholar, and EndNote's Connect tool.
• Technical requirements: you will need to register, download and install (free) VPN software on your computer.
• Login requirements: the VPN uses Active Directory. For students, this is your normal login. For staff/faculty, many departments use Active Directory for normal daily computer access, but some do not, particularly in the health sciences. If your department does not use Active Directory, you will need to contact your department's Network Manager to get an account.
• Link to details for Virtual Private Network

For UCSD users located off campus at sites where computer access is locked down such that you cannot use either of the above methods (such as at outside hospitals, government facilities, etc), there is a way to use the VPN via the Web which requires only regular browser access. However, it is significantly slower than the methods above and should only be considered a last resort. We recommend that you first try working with your local IT group to see if they can make arrangements for you to use one of the methods above - you will get much better results. Like the VPN, this requires an Active Directory login, so you should make sure to have that login before trying this. If you would like information on this alternative, please contact the Biomedical Library reference desk at (858) 534-1201 or biomed@ucsd.edu

Problems?
The proxy server, and VPN services described above are all provided by Adminstrative Computing and Telecommunications' (ACT) Network Operations unit. If you have questions about your password, compatibility with your particular hardware/operating system/firewall setup, or other technical questions relating to getting the service configured, please contact them.

If you are having a problem with a particular database, e-journal or other library resource, please contact the libraries. We have an online problem reporting form or you can call us at (858) 534-1201.

Last updated: November 13, 2008
Friendly URL: http://biomed.ucsd.edu/services/access.htm