ITS has deployed a proxy server, which acts as an intermediary between a computer and the Internet. As an added layer of protection for your computer, the proxy server works by preventing your Web browser software from accessing website pages that contain malicious code. Many new attacks have been developed in which legitimate websites are used to present malicious code through their advertising. The new proxy server uses a subscription-based service that continually updates its list of malicious/compromised websites. If you try to visit a website hosting known malicious content, you will receive a message that you are not able to access the site for security reasons.

Laptops that are also used outside of Yale will also use the new Yale ITS proxy. When off-campus it is recommended that you connect to the Yale VPN before you first begin to use your web browser to access any Internet sites. If you are using your Yale laptop when connecting from off-campus and are not connected to the Yale VPN, you will be prompted to provide your Yale NetID and password (example of screen). This Yale NetID and password check is a verification that the user of the proxy is an authorized Yale community member.