GlobalProtect is the University of Pittsburgh's official Virtual Private Network (VPN). It creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device and Pitt's network so you can safely access University resources from anywhere — at home, in a coffee shop, or while traveling.
When do I need to use VPN?
- Accessing departmental file servers or research systems from off campus
- Connecting a wired (Ethernet cable) device on the Pittsburgh campus
- Using Remote Desktop to access an office computer
- Accessing restricted University resources that require a Pitt network connection
Before You Begin – Requirements
- A valid University Computing Account (Pitt username and password)
- Duo Multi-Factor Authentication enrolled – visit duo.pitt.edu to enroll
- A supported operating system (Windows 10/11, current macOS, iOS, Android)
- An active software firewall and antivirus solution on your computer
Step 1 – Download and Install GlobalProtect
Where to Download
| Account Type |
Download Location |
| Students, Faculty, Staff (Primary Pitt Account) |
software.pitt.edu — sign in with your Pitt credentials |
| Sponsored / Guest Accounts |
portal-palo.pitt.edu — you may need to sign in twice |
| iOS (iPhone / iPad) |
Search "GlobalProtect" in the App Store (by Palo Alto Networks) |
| Android |
Search "GlobalProtect" in the Google Play Store (by Palo Alto Networks) |
| Chromebook |
Install GlobalProtect from the Google Play Store, then open and connect |
After installing, run the GlobalProtect app and enter the portal address when prompted:
portal-palo.pitt.edu
Step 2 – Connect to the VPN
- Open the GlobalProtect app (look for the globe icon in your taskbar / menu bar).
- Confirm the portal address shows portal-palo.pitt.edu and click Connect.
- A browser window will open. Sign in with your Pitt username and password.
- Approve the Duo MFA request on your phone (tap Approve in the Duo app, or enter a passcode).
- The GlobalProtect app will show Connected when the VPN is active.
When you are finished, click the GlobalProtect icon and select Disconnect to end the VPN session.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
I can't connect — my username or password is being rejected
- Make sure you are using your Pitt username (e.g., abc123) and your current Pitt password. If you recently changed your password, use the new one.
- Test your login at my.pitt.edu. If you can't log in there either, reset your password at accounts.pitt.edu.
- Make sure you have Duo MFA set up. Visit duo.pitt.edu to enroll or manage your devices.
- If you see a Microsoft prompt asking you to "verify your contact information," complete that prompt in your browser at myapps.microsoft.com first, then retry connecting.
GlobalProtect says "Could not connect to portal" or stays stuck on "Connecting"
- Check that the portal address is exactly: portal-palo.pitt.edu. A typo will prevent connection.
- Open a browser and try to load portal-palo.pitt.edu. If the page doesn't load, your basic internet connection may be down.
- Try clicking the Connect button — do not just press Enter after typing the portal address.
- Restart the GlobalProtect app and try again.
- Restart your computer and try again.
- T-Mobile or Xfinity customer? Some home internet or hotspot connections from these providers have network settings that can interfere with GlobalProtect. Try switching to a different Wi-Fi network or contact the Help Desk.
I'm connected to GlobalProtect but I still can't access the resource I need
- Confirm the GlobalProtect app shows Connected, not just that it is open.
- Try disconnecting and reconnecting the VPN, then retry accessing the resource.
- Some departmental resources require your computer to also meet security requirements (antivirus and firewall must be active). Make sure your security software is running and up to date.
- If the resource you need is a departmental file server or application, check with your department's IT contact to confirm your account has been granted access.
GlobalProtect keeps disconnecting on its own
- Make sure your antivirus and operating system are fully up to date. GlobalProtect verifies security settings and may disconnect if requirements are not met.
- Check that your device's built-in firewall is enabled (Windows Security → Firewall & network protection, or macOS System Settings → Network → Firewall).
- If you are using a public Wi-Fi network (hotel, airport, café), some networks block the ports required by VPN. Try connecting from a different network.
- If the problem persists, contact the Help Desk and let them know roughly when the disconnects occur.
How do I reinstall GlobalProtect?
- Uninstall the existing GlobalProtect app (Windows: Settings → Apps; macOS: drag to Trash).
- Restart your computer.
- Download the latest version from software.pitt.edu.
- Install using the default settings and enter portal-palo.pitt.edu as the portal address.
Important – Supported Operating Systems
GlobalProtect requires a currently supported operating system. Devices running outdated versions of Windows or macOS will be automatically blocked from connecting. If your device is running an unsupported OS, contact the Help Desk to discuss your options.
Still Need Help?
The Pitt IT Help Desk is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
When you call or submit a ticket, please have ready:
- Your Pitt username
- Your operating system (e.g., Windows 11, macOS Sonoma)
- The exact error message you see in GlobalProtect
- Whether the issue happens on campus, off campus, or both
Maintained by: Pitt IT – Help Desk Knowledge Management | Accessibility: WCAG 2.1 Level AA compliant