VPN access to the university network on macOS

This article explains how to set up VPN access to the university network on macOS.

1. Download and install the OpenVPN Connect app

If you haven't already, first install the OpenVPN Connect app. To do this, download the "OpenVPN Connect for Mac" installation file, run the file, and follow the installation instructions. Currently, the downloaded DMG file contains two different installers for the various Mac architectures (FAQ: How do I find out the architecture of my Mac?).
Once the installation is complete, start the OpenVPN Connect app. Accept the privacy policy by clicking AGREE.

2. Delete existing configuration

If you already have an existing VPN configuration, please delete the corresponding VPN profile first. To do this, open the OpenVPN Connect app. Click on the main menu ☰ and then on My Profiles. Then, click on the pencil icon to the right of the current VPN configuration to enter edit mode. Select the trash can icon in the top right corner. Confirm the deletion by clicking Delete.

3. Import your user certificate

Have your valid user certificate (as a .p12 key file) and the associated certificate password ready.

Open the OpenVPN Connect app. If you have already imported an OpenVPN profile, click on Menu ☰ → My Profiles and then on the large blue plus sign at the bottom edge of the window. If you have not yet installed a profile, click on Home. Then, click on Upload File, select your user certificate, and click OK. Complete the import by entering the certificate password and clicking OK.

4. Download and import vpn profile

If you haven't done so yet, please download the VPN profile.

Import the downloaded VPN profile either by opening it (double-click) or by going back to Menu ☰ → My Profiles in the OpenVPN Connect app, clicking the large blue plus sign, selecting Upload File, choosing the VPN profile, and confirming with Import.

You should then see a new profile: vpn.uni-greifswald.de. Next, click on the main menu ☰ and then on My Profiles. Then, click on the pencil icon next to the imported profile to enter edit mode.

Enter your account name under Username (URZ account).

Under Require External Certificate, click Select, choose the previously imported user certificate, and click Select.

Click on Save Changes.

5. Connect and disconnect the vpn connection

To establish the VPN connection, click CONNECT under the current VPN profile and enter your password.

To terminate the VPN connection, click DISCONNECT under the VPN profile.