St Andrews Remote Access (SARA)
The SARA remote access dial-up service is being withdrawn soon. The hardware which underpins this service is now beyond its serviceable lifetime, and is currently running in a state of reduced capacity due to hardware failure.
We regret that due to the declining use of the service, there is no cost-effective way for IT Services to continue to provide a general-purpose dial-in service, and we advise you to use a broadband Internet service, and if necessary the University VPN Service as an alternative. Further information can be found in the IT Services area of the University Website.
The SARA service will be withdrawn on the 31st January 2013 (or potentially earlier, if the temporary repair to the hardware proves to not last that long).
St Andrews Remote Access is a service to allow computers outside the University campus to gain access to the University computer network through a dial-up modem connection.
SARA consists of a Cisco AS5350 access router with 30 external telephone lines, and supports connections from both analogue modems (up to V.92 standard) and ISDN terminal adapters. The University does not charge directly for use of SARA, but any telephone calls made to SARA will be charged by your telephone service provider at the normal rate.
Why use SARA?
- To make occasional network connection where a telephone line or mobile phone connection is sufficient (or the only option available) .
- To access St Andrews computer services which cannot be reached through the main firewall, or to use external computer services which can normally only be accessed from computers within the University network.
The usual reason for such a restriction would be use of an external ISP or other connection not within the University network: in these cases, a VPN connection may be a useful option, as noted below
What are the alternatives?
Although most people will be dialling a local number to connect, SARA is relatively expensive to use for general Internet access: it's usually more convenient and often considerably cheaper to connect to the Internet through a commercial ISP, especially where broadband or 'unmetered' connections are available.
When connected remotely through a commercial ISP, most of the standard University computer services are available, including e-mail. However, to gain access to some restricted services you will then need to configure a VPN connection.
Who can use SARA?
SARA is available to everyone who has a University computer account, and can be used for any legitimate academic purpose, subject to our standard Conditions for the Use of computers. For communications outside the University, you must also comply with the JANET Acceptable Use Policy.
How to use SARA
The University reserves the right to pass on charges for excessive or inappropriate use of resources.
