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Install and Configure the Cisco AnyConnect Software VPN for Windows

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Installing the VPN Client

  1. Download the AnyConnect VPN client for Windows. Note: If you're using some versions of Microsoft Edge, the program could download as a "sys_attachment.do" file. You will need to rename the file to "sys_attachment.msi"

  2. Click Run on the Open File – Security Warning dialog box.
  3. Click Next in the Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client Setup dialog box, then follow the steps to complete the installation.

Starting the VPN Client

  1. Go to Start->Programs->Cisco->Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client to launch the program.
  2. Enter vpn.uci.edu in the Ready to Connect to field, then press the Connect button.
  3. A popup will appear where you will enter your UCInetID and password. By default, you will be connected to the Default-UCI connection profile/group. If you need to change this you can select your desired connection profile from the Group drop-down menu: (NOTE this window may be hidden slightly behind the login window)
    • UCIFULL – Route all traffic through the UCI VPN.
      • IMPORTANTUse UCIFULL when accessing Library resources.
    • Default-UCI – Route only campus traffic through the UCI VPN. All other traffic goes through your normal Internet provider.
  4. Back in the login window, enter your UCInetID and password, then click OK.
  5. On the next page you'll see the Duo Multifactor Login screen where you will either receive a push or enter a passcode.
  6. A banner window will appear. Click Accept to close that window. You are now connected!

Please note that if you are unable to connect to the VPN using the above method, follow these steps instead.

  1. Enter vpn.uci.edu in the Ready to Connect to field, then press the Connect button.
  2. A popup will appear where you will enter your UCInetID and password. Do not enter your credentials yet. You must first change your connection group. (NOTE this window may be hidden slightly behind the login window)
    • UCIFULL-classic – Route all traffic through the UCI VPN.
      • IMPORTANTUse UCIFULL-classic when accessing Library resources.
    • UCI-classic – Route only campus traffic through the UCI VPN. All other traffic goes through your normal Internet provider.
  3. Back in the login window, enter your UCInetID and password. Below the password box, type the word 'push' (without the quotes) and then select OK. You will receive a push from Duo and will be able to login.
  4. A banner window will appear. Click Accept to close that window. You are now connected!

Disconnecting the VPN Client

When you are finished using the VPN, remember to disconnect.

  1. Right-click the AnyConnect client icon located in the system tray near the bottom right corner of your screen.
  2. Select Quit.

Troubleshooting the VPN Client (FAQ & DART diagnostic utility)

If you're having trouble connecting to the VPN, please consult our comprehensive FAQ near the bottom of the main VPN page. If the issue persists, we will ask you to install and run the DART diagnostic utility and email us the ZIP file which will contain detailed logs about your system that will be useful for troubleshooting,