Using the LS IT VPN with a Mac

The LS IT VPN service has been verified to work with Intel-based and M1-based Macs.

How to connect to the VPN for the first time

If you have a LS IT managed computer, you can use the BigFix Self Service App to install the OpenVPN client (see https://kb.ucdavis.edu/?id=6153 and skip to Step #8.
Visit the VPN web address: https://vpn.ls.ucdavis.edu/
Provide your UC Davis credentials (CAS LoginID and Passphrase), and click the "Sign In" button.
Follow the prompt for Duo authentication
You will be prompted to download the VPN client software (the recommended version for your operating system will be at the top of the list).
Launch the installer and enter your administrator credentials if prompted
Complete the installation procedure, accepting all of the default options.
Once the installer completes, open "OpenVPN Connect" in the Applications folder
Exit out of the tour and click "OK" on the prompts for data collection and updates
On the profile, click on the toggle button to connect and enter your UC Davis credentials and follow the Duo prompts
When successful, you will see that you are “Connected” and some connection information will be displayed
You will find a new OpenVPN icon in your system menu bar (upper right corner of the screen), which indicates the status of your VPN connection. The icon looks like an orange keyhole.

You can find pictorial directions here:

Find the OpenVPN icon in your system menu bar (upper right corner of the screen) or in the Applications folder. The icon looks like an orange outlined keyhole.
Click on the icon, and select "Connect . . ." from the menu.
You will be prompted to enter your UC Davis credentials (CAS LoginID and Passphrase).
Click the "OK" button to connect to the VPN.

Find the OpenVPN icon in your system menu bar (upper right corner of the screen). The icon looks like an orange keyhole.
Click on the icon, and select "Disconnect" from the menu.