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About Off-Campus Access to E-Resources

Off-campus access to most library databases and e-journals is available only to current LSUHSC students, faculty, and staff. Currently, there are two methods for accessing library resources remotely.

VPN

  • This is the preferred method for accessing resources remotely. The VPN service creates a secure connection between your computer and the LSUHSC-Shreveport network.

  • While connected to the VPN, you will have access to the university's computing resources as if you were on campus. This includes access to many resources licensed by the library, such as online journals, books, and databases as well as some institutional systems related to patient care.

  • The VPN may only be used on a university-owned or personal computer belonging to current faculty, students, and staff.

  • Click here to view instructional videos or download and install the VPN.

  • If the VPN has been downloaded and installed, click here to access the LSUHSC-Shreveport SSL VPN Portal.

How to Install the VPN Software


Off-Campus Access FAQ

What are my options for off-campus access to e-journals and databases?

There are two methods: the institutional VPN, or the library's proxy server. You can access the VPN software with your LSUMC-MASTER username and password. Medical students should note that the Department of Biometry provides a computer supporter for them (Allison Hill at x3-1660), and that the VPN software is pre-installed on their laptops.

I am using the VPN, but still can’t get access to electronic journals and databases. What’s wrong?

The most common cause of this problem is an older version of the VPN software. Download the current version here.

I can't access UpToDate from off campus, even though I am using the proxy server or the VPN. What’s wrong?

UpToDate is one of a small number of resources for which the publisher does not permit off-campus access at all, even through validation systems such as our VPN and proxy server. Unfortunately, the cost of a license for off-campus access is prohibitive.

Why is off-campus access limited to LSUHSC-S students, faculty, and staff?

When we purchase access to an electronic resource, we sign a license agreement with the vendor. This license requires us to restrict access to the current LSUHSC-S community.

Are there any electronic resources that can be accessed remotely without a VPN or proxy server account?

Yes. These resources are identified by special access icons in the library’s e-journal and database menus:

    The "Free" icon denotes a resource that is freely available to the public without charge. Note, however, that some e-journals become free only after an “embargo” period of months to years.


    The “LSUMC-MASTER” icon denotes a resource that permits off-campus access, but requires that you login using your LSUMC-MASTER account (i.e., the same login used for the campus e-mail system and the VPN.) The Ovid database is of this type.