How do I log in to the UIC VPN?

Overview

This article explains how to download, install, and log in to the UIC Virtual Private Network (VPN) using your UIC credentials and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

About the UIC VPN

The UIC Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides a secure connection to university resources when you are off campus. By connecting to the VPN, you can access services and systems that may otherwise be restricted to the UIC network.

Note: The use of this VPN solution requires you to enroll in the university’s 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) solution. 2-FA provides an additional level of security to protect your resources. How can I learn more about 2FA?

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.

Logging into VPN

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

How to log into VPN:

  1. Launch the AnyConnect VPN application on your computer
  2. In the VPN field, enter vpn.uic.edu, then select Connect.

    add vpn.uic.edu in the pop-up
     
  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? .
  1. Enter you UIC NetID in the Username field type 
     
  2. Enter your UIC Common password in the Password field.
     
  3. 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:

enter net ID in username, password and add 2FA method as second password

 

Duo interface 
Duo Passcode

  1. Authenticate with Duo 2FA.
  2. The AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client window will appear again, confirming your connection.

    VPN connected
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