So as my loyal readers know, both of you, I travel quite a bit for work. So this past week I was on the road traveling when my VPN software decided to stop working. So it was quite interesting how I dealt with the issue.
I travel with key programs on a thumb drive, these are the programs that I need to have to be productive with a machine that is not my work machine. Just in case. (It used to be a CD, then a DVD, then USB Flashdrives became easier.) Some of the installers I carry are:
- System Architect
- Firefox
- Netscan
- Wireshark
- Acrobat Reader
- BandManager
- London Architect
- TightVNC
- WhereIsIt and its catalogs
- Open Office
To name a few. Some are in the portable format so that I can run them right off the memory stick, but most are installers. Notice what is not on the list, the VPN software. So I was out of luck. I called the help desks.
First I called the VPN software provider help desk. All that they could do was tell me to download it off the website but they did not know the version I was to be using or the configuration.
So then I called my corporate help desk. We have retained an outside Support Supplier. Let’s just say it did not go well. There is a reason there are stories and angst about calling help desks. Although it was nice to be able to call at any time.
So for the rest of the week’s trip I was without VPN. I did have my Blackberry, but I could not read all the attachments on it. I did have access to a web portal for corporate mail, but that did not work for all formats of mail – such as HTML. However I know that the update for that is in process, and I am looking forward to that.
It was quite interesting the amount I was able to get done and also how I was hamstrung on occasion. I have since added to the list of things that I carry with me, the VPN software.
Also to give credit to my company’s IT oversight committee, they have already stepped up and said next time to call them directly. They have also have asked for more information from the Support Supplier.