This is in line with campus IT Policy IT03 (Network Security) and addresses risk previously seen with large volumes of SSH attacks from off campus. People trying to use SSH to connect from off campus to on-campus resources will need to use the University’s VPN. SSH connections not using the VPN will be blocked.

This policy is in line with similar restrictions for Remote Desktop, Telnet, and VNC.

Tech Services has created a process to apply for a temporary exception for specific SSH connections. This addresses common use cases for researchers and business collaborations.

You can request this by visiting https://go.illinois.edu/ssh . The Office of Identity, Privacy, and Cybersecurity at Technology Services will review the exception request for data accuracy. This exception process sometimes requires an explicit authorization and assumption of risk by the requesting unit’s Executive Officer (i.e. college dean) for systems determined to be medium or high risk.

For questions about the SSH policy, please contact securitysupport@illinois.edu.