Suggestions & CommentsConnecting from Off-Campus
Some resources, like article databases, are restricted to UMBC affiliates and on-campus users only. Non-UMBC affiliates must come to the library to use them.
- UMBC users only can use either Research Port or the VPN. UMBC Special Borrowers CANNOT access databases from off-campus. Other USM affiliates can access Research Port but must choose the campus at which they are registered.
- Distance Education Students and other UMBC affiliates who do not have a library ID should use the VPN to connect with their myUMBC user name and password.
Login to Research Port
If using an off-campus Internet Service Provider, you must log in using your last name and 14-digit barcode number from your campus ID-- NOT your Student ID. If you registered late or replaced your ID recently, then you must go, in person, to the Circulation Desk to have your ID activated.
You can also find your Library barcode in myUMBC:- Go to https://my.umbc.edu/ and Log in
- At the top right-hand corner of the page, click on your name
- Your current barcode on record with UMBC will be listed as your "Library ID"
Use the Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Users with broadband connections (Verizon, Comcast, ISDN, cable modem) can use the VPN to connect from off campus. This option is available only to those who have UMBC E-mail accounts.
NOTE: the VPN works best with Internet Explorer.
- Connect to the VPN at https://vpn.umbc.edu
- Log in with your myUMBC Username and password
- Select the UMBC Library Homepage link to start using library resources (databases, e-journals, Research Port)
OR
For SciFinder Scholar or Crossfire Commander (Beilstein/Gmelin):under Client Application Sessions, click the start button for Network Connect
For VPN technical support, please contact the OIT Help Desk at 410-455-3838 or helpdesk@umbc.edu.