Connecting to VPN Using Cisco AnyConnect (Windows)

The Cisco AnyConnect VPN client provides a secure and encrypted connection to the Radford University campus network.  This article explains when to use VPN, and how to install and connect to the client with a Windows computer.

When to Use VPN

On/Off Campus:

• To access Banner Admin Pages
• To access COGNOS reports

       Off campus:

• To access your H: drive.  Note, in order to access your H: drive from off-campus, you will need to remap to it the first time (refer to https://radford.service-now.com/itonestop?id=kb_article&sys_id=7cfe5d73db2f9b80350d54b8dc9619a1). 
• To access department shared network drive (Whale)
• To install software from the Software Center
  
  Recommended – Not Required:  VPN connection is strongly recommended if you are connected to a public WiFi hotspot with a University-owned computer.
  

Installing the VPN

Radford University-Issued Computers:  The Cisco AnyConnect VPN client is already installed on all Radford University computers.  If you need to reinstall or update, the software can be downloaded from the Software Center (refer to https://radford.service-now.com/itonestop?id=kb_article&sys_id=3e390535dbe633001b5c7dfdae96191d)[ML2].

Personal Computers:  The VPN software is available for Radford faculty, staff, and enrolled students to install on their personal Windows or Mac computer.  To install on a Windows machine:
     1.  Log into MyRU.
     2.  Click on the Personal Info icon.
     3.  On the right side of the screen under Software Downloads for Personal Use, (Windows options), click Cisco AnyConnect VPN Client.
     4. Save the downloaded file.  Click the file to install the software.

Connecting to the VPN

1. Click the Show Hidden Icons arrow on the Windows taskbar.
      
   
   
2. Click the AnyConnect icon from the group of icons shown.
        
   
   
3. Type webvpn in the Connect to field if it does not already appear, and click Connect.

             NOTE: Type webvpn.radford.edu if off campus or on a personal computer.
             

1. Enter your RU username and password in the appropriate fields, and click Login. 
      
   
   
2. Authenticate with Duo.
       
   
   
3. Read and accept the RU VPN connection policy.
       

You should now be connected to the RU VPN using Cisco's AnyConnect client.                                                  

To disconnect from the VPN:
1.  Click the Show Hidden Icons arrow on the Windows taskbar, and then click the AnyConnect icon.  (Note, a yellow lock appears over the icon when connected.)
     

2.  Click Disconnect.
     

When disconnected, the yellow lock no longer appears on the Anyconnect icon.
    

If you experience issues or have any questions regarding this topic, contact the Technology Assistance Center at (540) 831-7500.