VPN Service: Virtual Private Network

Who should use VPN?

You should use VPN if both of the following are true:

• You are connecting to the University through the UMDNet wireless network or through a non-UMD ISP, such as cable modem, DSL, AOL, etc.
• You will be transmitting sensitive data (such as passwords, credit card information, social security numbers or any confidential information) or you need to access restricted resources at the University (such as Library journals or restricted systems).

You do not need to use VPN:

• If you connect to the Internet through the UMD modem pool (this connection provides secure access to all UMD resources).
• To access your UMD email through UMD WebMail, Thunderbird, Outlook or MacMail, which all use secure passwords.
• If you are just browsing the web.

Installing the VPN client

Please use the AnyConnect client for all operating systems (including 64-bit OS). iOS (iPhone, iPad, iPod) users follow this link for instructions on downloading and installing the client. All others may download and install the VPN client on your computer following these steps:

1. Open a web browser and browse to: https://umdvpn.d.umn.edu
   
   
2. Sign in with your University Internet ID and password.
3. The VPN server should detect the operating system for your computer and automatically install the latest client to your computer. You may be prompted to install/allow Active X controls.
4. Once installed, it will then automatically make a connection to the VPN server as well.
   
   
   
   NOTE: If the automatic install fails, a link will be displayed for the appropriate client for your operating system - select the link to manually download and install the VPN client. Or, you can try downloading and installing with a different web browser.

Using the VPN service

1. Make sure your computer is connected to the Internet. (If you have cable or DLS modem access, you're usually connected as soon as you turn your computer on. If you have traditional modem access, dial-up to your ISP.)
2. Select the "Cisco AnyConnect VPN Client"
   • Windows computers: Under "Programs - Cisco"
   • Macintosh computers: Under "Applications - Cisco"
3. Enter your Username (University Internet ID) and Password and select "Connect."
   
   
4. When you're done, select "Disconnect" to close the VPN connection.