OpenAthens FAQ

What is OpenAthens?

OpenAthens is the new authentication system used by the University Library for access to licenced online resources and services.

OpenAthens is a single-sign on authentication service that allows students and employees to access licenced electronic resources (journal articles, ebooks, and databases) both on and off campus. We previously used EZProxy to manage user logins. OpenAthens replaces that service.

Why Change?

OpenAthens single sign-on approach is more secure and reliable than Ezproxy's IP recognition.  The version of Ezproxy running at UNE has reached end of life.

With single sign-on (SSO), you can move from resource to resource faster.

You can access content you find from a web search and then sign in directly, or you can use Library ‘Search”, Google Scholar or the A-Z Database list. Whichever way you prefer, you will be able to access licenced online content seamlessly using standard UNE credentials.

Session timeouts for some resources will be eliminated, and access stability will be enhanced.

OpenAthens will automatically keep you authenticated for all eligible resources for 2 hours - no need to log in multiple times.

Privacy:

What OpenAthens Collects:
  • In order to authenticate you to specific resources (databases, e-journals, and ebooks), OpenAthens collects your name and email address when you sign into the system.

This information is not passed on to vendors. Instead, OpenAthens passes a system-generated numeric ID to resource providers.

OpenAthens Data Security and User Privacy FAQs 

Some of the library's online resources allow users to personalise their experience once authenticated through OpenAthens. These personalisation features vary, but when available they often include:

  • Saving search results
  • Saving searches
  • Annotating sources
  • Recommended resources

While personalisation features can be particularly useful, they also require users to allow for their browsing history to be saved.

How?

On database and publisher websites, look for institutional login options via OpenAthens. The login link could be named Institutional/Organisational Login, OpenAthens, Federation Login, Other Log in/Sign in or similar.

Find the site’s Login link.

Look for an Institutional login option, and/or OpenAthens.

Search for University of New England AU as your institution/organisation.

Sign in using your UNE username and password.

You will need to change the proxy URL in your reference management software (EndNote, Zotero, Mendeley etc.)

What Does This Mean for Me?

If you are accessing resources via Library ‘Search’ or the Library’s A-Z Databases list or LibGuides, you will not need to make any changes.

If you have any personalisation set up, you will need to reset as per the instructions above.  If you have any questions or need support contact:  Librarians@une.edu.au

Reading List links will be converted for you (teaching staff).