Cisco VPN, Start before logon

A feature of the Cisco AnyConnect VPN is the ability to connect to the VPN before entering your NetID and password on a Windows computer. This allows for first sign-ins off-campus as well as protection when traveling with a laptop.

For remote and hybrid staff and faculty signing in to a new computer for the first time, it is necessary to first connect to the campus VPN so the computer recognizes the NetID and password.

If you are not connected to the VPN before first sign-in, you will see this message:

Error message that reads We can't sign you in with this credential because your domain isn't available. This verbiage may be slightly different in other versions of Windows.

How to connect to the Cisco AnyConnect VPN at the login screen

From the login screen, select the button on the bottom right that looks like to stacked monitors.

Image of VPN icon on lock screen

When Cisco AnyConnect VPN opens, connect to vpn.illinois.edu. Click Connect, sign in with your NetID and campus password, and Connect.

VPN connection window with address displayed

Once connected to the VPN, log in to Windows with UOFI\NetID and your campus password.

Note: from this point forward, the VPN is not required when signing in, only for accessing certain campus resources.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact IT Partners @ Gies - helpdesk@business.illinois.edu, 217-244-0812.


KeywordsVPN, AnyConnect, Cisco, login, "Sign In", windows, "work from home", "first sign in", domain, "domain isn't", "domain is not", laptop, hybrid, connect   Doc ID122810
OwnerAllison P.GroupUI Gies College of Business
Created2022-12-02 10:39 CSTUpdated2022-12-02 10:54 CST
SitesUI Gies College of Business
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