NSF Remote Access

WORKING REMOTELY

For individuals who participate in telework programs or need access to the NSF network while traveling, remote access provides the ability to access the NSF network. When working away from the NSF building, you may need to access NSF applications, systems, and internal resources such as InsideNSF, SharePoint sites, and WebTA. You should use your NSF Seamless Mobile Computer (SMC) whenever possible for IT security reasons. Your options, in order of agency preference, are:

VPN on an NSF SMC
VDI on non-NSF laptops or desktops
Outlook Web Application

Remote Access Option	Requirements	Approved Device Usage	Access
Virtual Private Network (VPN)	Internet access Cisco AnyConnect software (The required software to connect to VPN is pre-installed on the device.) PIV Card PIV Card reader	A government furnished computer or contractor furnished computer with the NSF VPN Profile	All functionality of your office workstation
Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) via Citrix	Internet access https://vdi.nsf.gov/ RSA soft token or hard token	Any Citrix compatible device	Somewhat similar experience to your office workstation
Webmail Outlook Web Application (OWA)	Internet access https://outlook.office365.com/owa/ RSA soft token or hard token	Any device, personal or federal	Only (NSF) government email, your Outlook calendar, contacts, and OneDrive.

SEAMLESS MOBILE COMPUTING (SMC)

If you do not already have a Windows or Mac SMC laptop, visit the SMC page on InsideNSF or contact your IT Specialist or IT Service Desk.

NEED HELP?

Contact IT Help Central - 6 AM to 7 PM
703.292.HELP (x4357) or toll free: 800.711.8084 or ITServiceDesk@nsf.gov