Accessing University Resources with Cisco Secure Client VPN

This article provides instructions for downloading, installing, and connecting to the university VPN using Cisco Secure Client. Follow the steps outlined in this guide to securely access internal university resources from a remote location. The article also includes connection requirements, authentication guidance, and basic troubleshooting steps for common VPN issues.

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Follow the steps below to install Cisco Secure Client and connect securely to the campus network from a remote location.

Please make sure you have a OneID username/password and MFA set up prior to completing the next steps.

1. Access the VPN Portal - Open a web browser and go to: https://vpn.ncat.edu

2. Log In 

   • In the VPN login window, enter the following:

     • Group: Select your group from the drop-down list
     • Username: Enter your OneID username
     • Password: Enter your OneID password
     • Click Login.
     • If you receive a username or password error:
       • Employees/Students should contact the Client Technology Services (CTS) Help Desk
       • Affiliates should contact their sponsor

3. Download AnyConnect

   • Click Download for Windows (Mac), (Linux).

   • Click the +Instructions button to see step by step screenshots for installation.

4. Install the Cisco Secure Client package on your computer.

5. Starting a VPN Connection

   • Open Cisco Secure Client on your computer.

   • If this is your first time launching the client, enter the following in the server field:

     • vpn.ncat.edu

     • Click Connect and log in using your OneID credentials.

If you experience issues connecting to the VPN, try the following:

1. Verify Internet Connectivity
   • Ensure you have an active internet connection by opening a website or running a network test.
2. Confirm VPN Server Address
   • Verify that the VPN server address vpn.ncat.edu is entered correctly in Cisco Secure Client.
3. Check Your Credentials
   • Confirm your username, password, and multi-factor authentication (MFA) approval are correct and current.
4. Restart Cisco Secure Client
   • Close and reopen the Cisco Secure Client application, then attempt to reconnect.
5. Restart Your Computer
   • Reboot your device to clear any temporary network or application issues.

Need help? Submit a ticket at support.ncat.edu.