Connecting to High-Performance Computing Virtual Private Network

Users can connect to NREL's high-performance computing (HPC) systems via VPN (virtual private network).

You do not need the VPN connection if...

You are an NREL employee using an NREL device (while on-site you may connect directly; while off-site, use your existing Pulse External VPN Connection).

You may need the VPN if...

  • You are a non-NREL HPC user or an NREL employee using a non-NREL device.
  • You need to use features such as web-based applications, X11 applications, or perform file transfers on non-Eagle systems.
  • Your organization blocks outbound SSH connections.

Requirements

Note:  NREL High-Performance Computing does not provide technical support, and you may need to seek assistance from your IT department when installing software.

Download and Install

Download and install the Pulse Secure Desktop Client for your operating system:

Operating System Installer
OS X Download
Windows Download
Ubuntu Download
Fedora/CentOS Download

Set Up Pulse Secure

  1. Start the Pulse Secure application
  2. Click the [+] button to create a new connection profile.  Add the following and save the connection:

    Type: Policy Secure
    Name: NREL-HPC (or whatever you want to call it)
    Server: https://hd.nrel.gov/
    screenshot

    Mac screenshot

  3. Click the [Connect] button and enter your username and the multifactor password combination (password+token).
    VPN

Testing

To ensure your connection is working, start your terminal client and connect to a server such as eagle.nrel.gov or use your web browser to connect to an internal service.

Caveats

The HPC VPN allows access to Computational Science Center resources only. While connected all network requests pass through NREL's network and specific services for your organization may be unavailable for use.


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