Summary
This article discusses how to connect to the U-M network when you are off campus. This can be especially helpful for when you are trying to connect to an S: Drive server (or any other drives/server spaces).
If you often work at home or anywhere else off-campus, you may find you need access to certain files or applications but can’t get to them due to the fact that you are not on the U-M network.
The VPN client essentially assigns your machine a network address as if it was located on-campus. This allows many of the previously mentioned shortcuts and applications to function correctly. Additionally, as of October, 2011, any Remote Desktop Connections initiated from off-campus will first require a VPN connection for security purposes.
Environment
Windows 10
Windows 11
Directions
Installing the VPN
- Go to Getting Started With VPN.
- Select "Windows" for the operating system.
- Click on the appropriate VPN client. Either, "Staff, Faculty, Students or Sponsored Affiliates" or "Alumni or Retirees."
- Save the VPN installer to your desktop.
- Run the installer.
- The install window for "Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client Setup" will appear.
- Click "Next."
- Click "I accept the terms in the License Agreement."
- Click "Next."
- Click "Install." This might prompt you for Admin Credentials. If you have them, enter them now. Otherwise, contact the LSA TS Service Desk at 734.615.0100 or LSATechnologyServices@umich.edu for assistance.
- Click "Finish." Cisco AnyConnect is now installed!
Connecting with the VPN
- Click the Start Menu.
- Find the "Cisco" folder.
- Click "Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client."
- In the new window for the program, make sure "UMVPN - Only U-M Traffic" is selected and click "Connect."
- It will prompt you for your uniqname and Kerberos password. Enter them and click "OK."
- Cisco AnyConnect will try to establish a connection. There might be a pop-up window saying that it has connected. You can verify that you are connected to the VPN by going to the upward arrow on on your taskbar near the system tray.
- Click the White Circle with the Lock, "Cisco AnyConnect."
- In the new window, there will be a GREEN CHECKMARK over the lock and it will say, "UMVPN - Only U-M Traffic."
- When you are done using the VPN, click "Disconnect" to end the session. The green checkmark will change to GREY WITH THREE PERIODS.
Instructional Video:
Note: Please follow step 4 above when watching the instructional video and connect to the "UMVPN - Only U-M Traffic" profile and not the "All Traffic" profile as demonstrated.
Notes