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Cisco VPN, How to connect before Windows login

A feature of the Cisco Secure Client 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 Secure Client at the login screen

From the login screen, you will need to select a button on the bottom right based on the operating system you have installed.

Windows 10

Select the icon that looks like two stacked monitors:

Select the icon that looks like two stacked monitors.

 

Windows 11

Select the icon that looks like a key and a lock:

Select the icon that looks like a key and a lock.

When Cisco Secure Client opens, connect to vpn.illinois.edu/login and select Connect.

Enter your NetID.

Enter your campus password and either your DUO Passcode from the mobile app or type 'push' or 'sms' to receive a code.

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.


Keywords:
VPN, Cisco, login, "Sign In", windows, "work from home", "first sign in", domain, "domain isn't", "domain is not", laptop, hybrid, connect, "Secure Client" 
Doc ID:
122810
Owned by:
Allison P. in UI Gies College of Business
Created:
2022-12-02
Updated:
2025-01-17
Sites:
UI Gies College of Business