Introduction
St. Cloud State offers faculty and staff members access to campus files and resources while off-campus through various methods. VPN access is one of the methods available to faculty and staff who have a specific need for a secured connection to their work environment.
Through this VPN service, you will be able to access internal St. Cloud State services.
(Due to security concerns, you will not be able to access web sites that are outside the St. Cloud State domain.)
Requirements
- Be a current faculty/staff member with a valid StarID and password.
- Written approval from supervisor
- State-owned computer
- Windows 10 or newer. Mac OS X 10.11 or greater.
You can request VPN access by filling out the VPN Request Form.
ITS will review the request. If the request is approved, you must install the software on your state-owned computer using software center.
Instructions
Using VPN (after installation)
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If you follow the Installation Instructions, then the Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client application will be installed on your computer. You can find this by browsing to your Start Button, All Programs, Finding the Cisco folder and opening it. Inside there you will find the application to launch to connect to the VPN.
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Once you open the application, you will need to type in your Office 365 credentials (starid@minnstate.edu) ; this will allow you to connect inbound to the St. Cloud State network.
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The connected bubble will pop up if you enter in the correct credentials; you are now connected to the St. Cloud State network.
Disconnecting from VPN
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Once you are connected, if you want to disconnect all you need to do is find the VPN Icon in the bottom right of your screen, right-click it, and select Disconnect. You could also choose to Quit, however, if you plan on using the VPN often, then you will only want to disconnect so that you can connect to it again without navigating to your Start Menu.
- Occasionally you might get a dialog box letting you know that the VPN client has been disconnected. It suggests that you clear your browser's cache which can be done in the options of your browser. This is to maintain the security of your user account and the files you accessed.
Troubleshooting
- “Login Failed” – If you received this error, it means you are not using the correct StarID or password, please check your information or contact the HelpDesk at 320-308-7000 for assistance.
- “Login Denied” – If you received this error, it means you are not approved for VPN access. To get approval please complete the VPN Request Form and return it to the SCSU HelpDesk in the Miller Center, room B43. The HelpDesk will contact you within 5 business days regarding your request. If your request is approved, you will be notified to reattempt the installation of VPN software. If you have any questions regarding installation or access, please contact the HelpDesk at 320-308-7000.