Using GlobalProtect VPN on macOS

Summary

Step-by-step instructions for connecting to Bowdoin's VPN using the GlobalProtect app on a Mac. Covers first-time setup, connecting on subsequent uses, and disconnecting. Requires GlobalProtect to already be installed.

Body

Questions

  • How do I connect to Bowdoin VPN on my Mac?
  • How do I use GlobalProtect on macOS?
  • How do I access Bowdoin network resources like Microwave from off campus on a Mac?
  • How do I disconnect from Bowdoin VPN on macOS?
  • Why does GlobalProtect say the network is unreachable?

Environment

This article applies to Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff connecting to Bowdoin's VPN using GlobalProtect on a Mac. GlobalProtect must already be installed before following these steps — see Install GlobalProtect VPN on a Bowdoin-Issued Computer or iPad or Install GlobalProtect VPN on a Personal Device in the Related Articles section. Supported: macOS Sequoia (15.x), Tahoe (26.x), or newer.

You will need your Okta Verify factor available (usually your phone) to complete sign-in.

VPN does not work on campus. GlobalProtect will not connect while your Mac is on the Bowdoin network — via Ethernet, BOWDOIN wireless, or eduroam. VPN is for off-campus use only.

Resolution

First-time setup

If this is the first time you have opened GlobalProtect on this Mac, complete these steps to configure the portal address before connecting.

  1. Open GlobalProtect from your Applications folder.
    GlobalProtect macOS application icon of a globe with a black shield in the lower-right corner.
     
  2. A small globe icon will appear in your menu bar. Click the icon.
    A screenshot of part of a macOS menu bar with the GlobalProtect icon outlined in blue.
  3. In the Portal field, confirm the address reads remoteaccess.bowdoin.edu. If it does not, type it in.
  4. Click Connect.
    GlobalProtect connection failed message stating the network connection is unreachable, with a failed portal address and Connect button.

    Note: If you attempt to connect while on campus, you will receive the error shown above. This is expected — connect from off campus.
  5. When prompted, sign in with your Bowdoin username and password and complete Okta MFA. When connected, the globe icon changes to a green dot.

Connecting on subsequent uses

  1. Click the GlobalProtect globe icon in the menu bar.
  2. Click Connect.
  3. Sign in with your Bowdoin credentials and complete Okta MFA if prompted.

Disconnecting

  1. Click the GlobalProtect globe icon in the menu bar.
  2. Click Disconnect.
Accessing Microwave (network file storage): Once connected to VPN, you can connect to Microwave (the H: and J: drives) from your Mac using Finder. See the Microwave access article in the Related Articles section for instructions.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.

Details

Details

Article ID: 162894
Created
Tue 7/2/24 10:22 AM
Modified
Thu 5/7/26 3:37 PM

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