GlobalProtect Connection is Unreachable or the Portal is Unresponsive (Error) in macOS


Issue

You receive a Connection Failed error message when you try to connect to GlobalProtect VPN. The error message states, The network connection is unreachable or the portal is unresponsive. Check the network connection and reconnect.

Environment

  • GlobalProtect VPN
  • MacOS

Resolution

Confirm GlobalProtect VPN is configured to use the appropriate portal address, access.umd.edu.

  1. Select the GlobalProtect icon in the macOS menu bar. The GlobalProtect pop-over window will appear.
  2. Select the three-bar menu icon.
  3. Select Settings. The GlobalProtect Settings will appear in a new window.
  4. Select the General tab, if not already selected.
  5. In the Portals section, check if access.umd.edu is listed.
  6. If not, add a new portal by selecting the plus button.
  7. Enter access.umd.edu in the Portal Address: field.
  8. Select the Save button.

Connect using the access.umd.edu portal.

  1. Select the GlobalProtect icon in the macOS menu bar. 
  2. If more than one portal was listed in GlobalProtect Settings, a Portal drop-down menu is shown at the bottom. Make sure access.umd.edu is displayed here.
  3. Select the Connect button.

Cause

The Portal Address for UMD's VPN is incorrect in GlobalProtect.