Virtual Private Network (VPN)

What Is It?

The Virtual Private Network service allows you to securely access resources at UIC over a non-UIC Internet connection. While connected to the VPN, the client software works with the operating system to determine when you are accessing an Internet location that the client should protect. When you are accessing such a location, the VPN client encrypts the data.

There are two group options when connecting to AnyConnect: General-Use and Library-Resources.

Features

General-Use
Allows you to connect to your UIC department resources, such as research data sets. You can still access most library resources through the library website, but you will have to authenticate with your NetID and password (the way it works when you are off-campus).  A few library resources can be accessed only on campus -- for those resources, you must use the Library-Resources group.

Library-Resources
Gives you direct access to library electronic resources such as full-text articles from Google Scholar, JSTOR or PubMed, and on-campus only resources without logging in to each database.

Requirements

In order to connect to the VPN you must download and install the AnyConnect client from the U of I WebStore for Windows, macOS, or Linux. The AnyConnect app is also available for Android and iOS.

VPN authentication requires a valid UIC NetID and common password.

Who Is Eligible To Use It?

  • Faculty
  • Students
  • Staff

Where Can I Get It?

Select the Download VPN Client button located on this page to obtain the client from the Webstore.

How Do I Use It?

Learn how to log in to the UIC VPN. Network Security administrators in edge units can visit groups.uic.edu (note, you must be connected to the UIC VPN to access this tool) to administer access to their unit's private network space.

How Much Does It Cost?

This service is funded by the University; there are no direct costs to clients.

How Can I Get Support?

If you are experiencing a problem with this service, please report it. If you just have a question, feel free to ask us.

Service Levels

Service Request Fulfillment Time Automatically provisioned
Incident Resolution Time 2 business days
Service Availability 24x7
Maintenance Window(s) Approved Technology Solutions maintenance window(s)
Service Notification Channel(s) IT Service Notices
 
Download VPN Client

Related Articles (11)

Can I use the UIC VPN through a Remote Desktop session?
AnyConnect VPN access through Remote Desktop
How can I access UIC Library resources when not on campus?
Some resources managed by the UIC Library require the use of the Virtual Private Network (VPN) when you are not physically on-campus.
How can I provide individuals access to my unit's network resources?
Technology Solutions has developed a web application for designated administrators of unit network space to manage the end-users that are authorized to access the respective unit's network.
How do I install and use UIC VPN on Android?
This document provides instructions on the use of UIC’s Virtual Private Network solution.
How do I install and use UIC VPN on iOS?
This document provides instructions on the use of UIC’s VPN solution. 2FA provides an additional level of security to protect your resources.
How do I install and use UIC VPN on Linux?
This document provides instructions on use of UIC’s VPN solution. Please note that the use of this VPN solution requires you to enroll in the university’s 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) solution. 2FA provides an additional level of security to protect your resources.
How do I install and use UIC VPN on MacOS?
This document provides instructions on the use of UIC’s Virtual Private Network solution.
How do I install and use UIC VPN on Windows?
This document provides instructions on the use of UIC’s Virtual Private Network solution.
How do I log in to the UIC VPN?
Below are the instructions for logging into the AnyConnect VPN client.
What can I do if I am having trouble accessing UIC resources from outside the US?
If you are having trouble accessing UIC resources such as Blackboard, email, and more, from outside of the US, try using the UIC VPN solution.
Why should I use a VPN?
Explains why/when using a VPN could be a good idea