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How to Connect to the Practice Environment

Step 1: Install OpenVPN Client

  1. Go to the OpenVPN Downloads Page
  2. Download the appropriate installer for your operating system.
  3. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Step 2: Download the VPN Configuration File

  1. Reach out to a club officer to obtain the VPN configuration file (.ovpn file).
  2. Save the file to a location on your computer where you can easily find it (e.g., Desktop or Downloads folder).

Step 3: Import the Configuration File into OpenVPN

  1. Open the OpenVPN client application.
  2. Click on the "Import" button or the "+" icon to add a new configuration.
  3. Click "UPLOAD FILE" menu option.
  4. Browse to the location where you saved the .ovpn file and select it.
  5. Click "Open" to import the configuration.

Step 4: Configure the VPN Connection

  1. Once you imported the configuration file it will ask you to enter your username. Enter your Cyber@Stout SSO email.
  2. Next, click on the check box that says "Save password" and enter your Cyber@Stout SSO password.
  3. Click "CONNECT"
  4. Upon first connection you may be asked to provide a certificate. You can safely check the box that says "Don't show again for this profile" and click "Continue".

Step 5: Connect to Practice Environment

  1. Open a web browser and navigate to the practice environment URL https://practice.ccdl.net
  2. Click on the blue button that says "LAUNCH VSPHERE CLIENT"
  3. Log in using the provided credentials in teams. Reach out to a club officer if you do not have access to the teams.

    Local Practice Environment -> Files -> Passwords DO NOT EDIT.xlsx

  4. You now should see all of the virtual machines available to you in the practice environment. You can now start, stop, and manage the virtual machines as needed for your exercises.