OVERVIEW: The Cisco AnyConnect VPN client provides a secure and encrypted connection to the Radford University campus network. This article explains when to use VPN, and how to install and connect to the client with a Windows computer.
When to Use VPN
On/Off-Campus:
- To access Banner Admin Pages
- To access COGNOS reports
Off-campus:
- To access your H: drive. Note, in order to access your H: drive from off-campus, you will need to remap to it the first time (refer to Knowledge Base Article: Mapping a Network Drive
- To access department shared network drive (Whale)
- To install software from the Software Center
Recommended – Not Required: VPN connection is strongly recommended if you are connected to a public WiFi hotspot with a University-owned computer.
Installing the VPN
Radford University-Issued Computers: The Cisco AnyConnect VPN client is already installed on all Radford University computers. If you need to reinstall or update, the software can be downloaded from the Software Center (refer to Knowledge Base article: Installing Software Using Software Center
Personal Computers: The VPN software is available to download from https://webvpn.radford.edu
Follow the information provided on the document to install Cisco AnyConnect VPN Client.Knowledge Base article: Installing Cisco AnyConnect on Personal Machines
Connecting to the VPN
- Click the Show Hidden Icons arrow on the Windows taskbar.
- Click the AnyConnect icon from the group of icons shown.
- Type webvpn in the Connect to field if it does not already appear, and click Connect.
NOTE: Type webvpn.radford.edu if off-campus or on a personal computer.
- Enter your RU username and password in the appropriate fields, and click Login.
- Authenticate with Duo.
- Read and accept the RU VPN connection policy.
You should now be connected to the RU VPN using Cisco's AnyConnect client.
To disconnect from the VPN:
1. Click the Show Hidden Icons arrow on the Windows taskbar, and then click the AnyConnect icon. (Note, a yellow lock appears over the icon when connected.)
2. Click Disconnect.
When disconnected, the yellow lock no longer appears on the Anyconnect icon.
If you experience issues or have any questions regarding this topic, contact the Technology Assistance Center at (540) 831-7500.