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The Cisco VPN client allows you to access Union College resources from a computer when you are not physically at Union College. There are two types of uses that will require using the VPN client. One such use will be to access web‐based resources such as databases at Schaffer Library. The second use (AnyConnect) will be used to access network storage, course resources, and software. It is necessary to use the AnyConnect client if you want to run Outlook when you are not on campus.
Good VPN Etiquette
VPN is a shared resource. What does that mean? It means we have a set amount of bandwidth that is dedicated to supporting people using VPN. That set amount is distributed between the individuals who are connected to VPN at any given time. When more people are on, each individual will have a smaller amount of bandwidth allocated to them.
Because of this, we ask that you remember to disconnect from VPN when you do not need it to access protected College resources. Please do not use streaming services (Hulu, Netflix, Pandora, Spotify, etc) while you are connected to VPN - you do not need VPN to watch movies or listen to music on those services and you are using up important VPN resources that someone else may need to do their work.
If you do not have the Cisco AnyConnect Client installed follow these instructions to obtain the software.
Step 1.
Open your web browser and navigate to the web page https://unionvpn.union.edu
Step 2.
You will be prompted for login information. Set the Group to FACULTY, STAFF, or STUDENT * depending upon your “status” at Union College. Enter your Union College [USERNAME] (without the @union.edu or @garnet.union.edu) and your [PASSWORD]. Click [Login]. You will see a dialog box welcoming you to the Union College VPN Server. Click [Continue].
* Note the "XXXX-SBL" groups are intended for remote workers that do not come to campus regularly and use a PC. If it has not been setup on your computer by ITS you will not be able to log on using that group.
Step 3.
You can start the installation of the AnyConnect client by clicking on the [AnyConnect] button on the left‐hand side of the window or by clicking on the [Start AnyConnect] link in the center of the page.
You may receive a security warning at the start of the installation (see below for examples of Windows and Macintosh warnings). Click [Yes] or [Allow] in order to continue the installation.
Step 4.
The AnyConnect client will install to your computer. Once installed, you just need to run the application and follow the prompts to connect to VPN. If the AnyConnect Client launches without a server name entered - it is unionvpn.union.edu. Once you select the correct group from the options, OKTA will prompt you to log in with your College credentials.
Once you are connected, you can begin using the Remote Desktop (PC or Mac) or any licensed application that would otherwise only run if you were on campus.
If you are having difficulty or you have unanswered questions, please contact the Help Desk through the ITS Service Catalog or call (518) 388-6400.