How do I install and use UIC VPN on Windows?

Overview

This article provides instructions for downloading, installing, and connecting to the UIC VPN using the Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client on Windows. It also explains how to authenticate using Duo Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and connect securely to university resources from off campus.

Before You Begin

• Before you begin, install the AnyConnect VPN client on your device. Follow the installation and setup instructions available through the UIC Webstore for your operating system.
• Note: The use of UIC VPN requires you to enroll in the university’s 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) solution. Go to How can I learn more about 2FA?

How to Install VPN

1. Download the VPN Software

If you haven't enrolled in the university's 2-Factor Authentication (2FA), visit https://identity.uillinois.edu and follow the steps. You will need to be enrolled to connect to the VPN.

1. Go to https://go.uic.edu/getVPN, add the offering to your cart, and checkout (Note: there is no charge for this software).
2. On the resulting order confirmation page, select to download the AnyConnect client for Windows.
3. Save the file at an easily findable location, such as your desktop or downloads folder.

2. Install the VPN Software

1. Locate the downloaded file on your computer (typically in your Downloads folder).
2. Double click anyconnect-win-XXXXXX-core-vpn-predeploy-k9.msi. It will open a standard Windows installer.
3. Select Next.

4. Accept the License Agreement and click Next.

5. Select Install.

6.  You will be prompted to allow the application to install. You must have administrator rights on your computer to allow this to proceed.

7.  Select Finish to complete the installation.

Launch the VPN software

For a step-by-step demonstration of the login process, watch the UIC VPN Login Video Tutorial. 

1. Once installed, locate the Cisco AnyConnect application from your Start Menu.

2. Open the application to launch the AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client.

1. Type vpn.uic.edu into the space provided.
2. Select Connect.

3. Enter your UIC credentials and choose a Duo Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) method.

Note: After a successful log in, the field names will change to become more descriptive. For example, Username will change to NetID and Second Password will change to 2FA Method

4. Verify the Group is set correctly.
   • The default group will be pre-selected as General-Use,
   • If you need access to library resources or other specialized services, you may need to select a different group. Refer to What group should I use for AnyConnect VPN? .
      
5. Enter you UIC NetID in the Username field type 
    
6. Enter your UIC Common password in the Password field.
    
7. In the Second Password field, choose one of the following authentication methods and select OK:
   • Option 1: Duo Push (Recommended)
     • Type push and select OK.
     • A notification will be sent to the Duo Mobile app on your registered device.
     • Approve the request in the Duo Mobile app to complete the login.
     • For more information about the Duo mobile app, see this document: 2FA, Installing the Duo Mobile app 
        
   • Option 2: Text Message Passcode
     • • Type sms and select OK.
       • The login attempt will not complete and you will be prompted to sign in again.
       • A six-digit passcode will be sent to your registered mobile device by text message.
       • Sign in again using your NetID and common password.
       • Enter the six-digit passcode in the Second Password field.
       • Note: Text message passcodes expire after five minutes.
          
   • Option 3: Generate Passcode
     • Instead of using push or sms, you can enter a six-digit passcode generated by:
       • The Duo Mobile app, or
       • A registered Duo OTP C100 physical token.

8. The AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client will appear again, confirming your connection.

Important

The next time you connect to the VPN, enter your UIC common password and select your preferred 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) method. After your initial login, the field labels will be updated to more descriptive names, such as NetID and 2FA Method.