How to Set Up a VPN Connection on the MAC OS X Lion Operating System

Apple introduce the first update to the MAC OS X operating system in July of 2011. Upgrading to OS X 10.7 Lion from the previous operating system version created some issues with VPN users, particularly those who utilized the Cisco VPN client to access university VPN servers. The Cisco VPN client that ran without issue on the previous version of OS X, became inoperable as the result of the MAC operating system upgrade.

Until a newer, compatible version of the Cisco VPN client is made available to users of OS X Lion, there is a workaround for setting up the VPN connection on a MAC. New laptop deals will now be shipped with the Lion OS. Following the same steps will configure the VPN clients for new laptops, as well as VPN clients produced by other manufacturers.

First, make sure any client software is installed on the MAC before starting the set up process. If using the Cisco client, make sure the client is installed prior to walking through the set-up steps. Some VPN servers will not require special software to access the VPN. Check with the institution's network administrator to see whether access to your institution's VPN requires a the installation of additional software. If software is needed, the institution will most likely provide the application free of charge.

Follow these steps to set up the VPN client to access an institution's VPN servers and establish a secure connection with the VPN server.

Step 1

Click the "Apple" icon located in the upper left corner of the desktop, and then click the "System Preferences" option. The System Preferences option is the fourth option listed when the Apple icon is clicked.

Step 2

Click the "Network" option in the "Internet and Wireless" category, and then click the "+" sign to expand the option.

Step 3

Click the "VPN" option as the "Interface." In the "VPN Type" input box, type "PPTP." Type the appropriate service name provided by the network administrator for the server into the "Service Name" input box. For example, if accessing the UCLA VPN, Type "UCLA VPN (PPTP)."

Step 4

Make sure the "Configuration" drop-down box has the "Default" option entered. If not, select "Default" from the "Configuration" drop-down menu.

Step 5

Type the IP address to the institutions' VPN server. For the UCLA VPN server, type "pptp.vpn.ucla.edu" This IP address is provided by the institution's network administrator.

Step 6

Type your network user name into the "Account Name" input box.

Step 7

Type your network user account password into the "Password" input box. Note: Only save the password if you are the only user of the computer you are configuring. Otherwise, leave the Password input box empty. Users will be required to enter the password each time the VPN connection is attempted.

Step 8

Check the option to "Show VPN Status in Menu Bar."

Step 9

Click the "Apply" button.

Step 10

Click the "Connect" button to test your newly configured VPN account. If configured correctly, and you have an Internet connection, you will be connected to the institution's VPN server.