• If you are not connected to the VPN before the first sign in, you will see this message
• Before you start
• Connect the computer to the internet at the sign in screen
  • Windows 10
  • Windows 11
• Open the Cisco Secure Client - Start Before Logon window
  • Windows 10
  • Windows 11
• Connect to the VPN
• Sign in to Windows
• Notes on the use of Cisco Secure Client VPN for remote employees

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

Before you start

Make sure you have internet connection available and have set up DUO Push as two-factor authentication. For details on setting up DUO Push, see 2FA/MFA, Enroll Smartphone in Duo Mobile.

Connect the computer to the internet at the sign in screen

Based on your Windows version, select the icon below to show the list of available Wi-Fi networks. Select a network, enter its password to connect to the internet.

Alternatively, plug in an Ethernet cable from your router to set up a wired connection to the internet.

Windows 10

Windows 11

Open the Cisco Secure Client - Start Before Logon window

Based on your Windows version, select the icon below to open the connection window.

Windows 10

Windows 11

Connect to the VPN

In the Cisco Secure Client window, open the drop down selection box and select profile "4 Computer Login".

In the pop up window, type in your NetID and password in the top two boxes.

Type in the word "push" in the last box, labeled "Second Password".

Press Enter or select "OK" to connect.

You will receive a push notification from the DUO app on your smartphone. Approve the push notification to finalize the connection.

Sign in to Windows

Select "Other user" in the bottom-left corner of the screen. Use your NetID and password to sign in to Windows.

Notes on the use of Cisco Secure Client VPN for remote employees

After the first time sign in as explained above, it's not necessary to connect to Cisco VPN every time before signing in to Windows.

It is required to connect to Cisco VPN at least once a month while off campus, so that Windows and other licenses are kept up to date.

It is required to connect to Cisco VPN to access certain campus resources.

It is recommended to connect to Cisco VPN for work while off campus, especially when using public Wi-Fi.

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