> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://bridge-lab.gitbook.io/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://bridge-lab.gitbook.io/docs/tech/servers/connect-to-an-external-server.md).

# Connect to an External Server

#### Instructions to access an external server via Mac:

* Ensure that you are either connected to the on-campus MUSC Wifi network OR that you are connected to the MUSC VPN.
* Further instructions for connecting via the MUSC VPN [here](https://portal.musc.edu/ocio-is/infrastructure/Network-Systems-Team/Pages/Remote%20Access.aspx).
  * Note: you will need to be connected to MUSC's secure wifi for this process.
* Open a Finder window.
* In the top left toolbar, click “Go”, select “Connect to Server” at the bottom of the list.
* In the top search bar, enter the server address.
  * The server address will vary depending on which server you want to connect to, but the format will be something like: `smb://111.11.11.111`
* (You can also click the plus (+) button in the bottom left corner of the connection box in order to add this address to your list for easier access next time.)
* Click “Connect” and enter your netID and password when prompted.
* You can elect to have the connection tool remember your net ID for easier access next time.

#### Instructions to access an external server via Windows:

* Ensure that you are either connected to the on-campus MUSC Wifi network OR that you are connected to the MUSC VPN.
* Further instructions for connecting via the MUSC VPN [here](https://portal.musc.edu/ocio-is/infrastructure/Network-Systems-Team/Pages/Remote%20Access.aspx).
  * Note: you will need to be connected to MUSC's secure wifi for this process.
* On the sidebar, navigate to “Network”, right click, and select “Map network drive…”
* In the folder search bar, enter the server address.
  * The server address will vary depending on which server you want to connect to, but the format will be something like:
  *  `\\111.11.11.111\servername`
* Click the checkbox “Reconnect at sign-in” for easier access next time.
* Click the checkbox “Connect using different credentials”
* In the credentials window, click “More choices” and select “Use a different account”.
* Enter “clinlan\\\[your netID]” and your netID password and click “Connect”.

#### If you have any connection issues, check the following:

* Your VPN connection (if applicable) – ensure that you are connected to the VPN.
* The address of the server – make sure that the address is entered correctly and that there are no spaces or extraneous characters.
* Your internet connection – ensure that you are connected to the internet.