This guide illustrates how to use Ubuntu's built-in VPN Client. This guide was written using Ubuntu 10.10, 32-bit on 22nd December 2010, with all recommended and proposed updates applied to this point.
While Ubuntu includes the package for the VPN software, for 3rd party VPN systems (such as the Cisco one that Oxford uses) you need to install a 3rd party client.
Open a terminal and type:
sudo apt-get install network-manager-vpnc vpnc
Still in the terminal window type:
sudo gedit /etc/dbus-1/system.d/nm-vpnc-service.conf
Inbetween the following lines at the end of the file:
</policy>
</busconfig>
Insert the following:
<policy at_console="true">
<allow own="org.freedesktop.NetworkManager.vpnc"/>
<allow send_destination="org.freedesktop.NetworkManager.vpnc"/>
</policy>
Open up an Internet Browser and go to : https://register.oucs.ox.ac.uk/self/software?swp=vpn
Download 'Configuration file (oucs.pcf) to a convienant place on your machine
Open up Network connections: System --> Preferences --> Network Connections
Click on VPN tab, 2nd from the right
Click on Import button on the right hand side
Locate the oucs.pcf file that you downloaded and then double click on it
A new window will open entitled Editing Connect to OUCS VPN Service
Under Optional. Enter your SSO username next to User name:
If you want this to always remember your password, next to User password: change Always Ask to Saved and enter your Remote Access password in the box next to it.
Click on Apply, then Close
Click on the Networking Icon. If connection by LAN it is two arrows in opposite directions. If connection by Wireless it is the normal Wireless irratadting lines symbol.
Then: VPN Connections --> Connect to OUCS VPN Service
This will establish the VPN connection and picture of a padlock will be added to the networking symbol.
To disconnect: VPN Connections --> Disconnect VPN