Downloads and Guides: Connect to AnyConnect VPN for Windows 10

This article provides step-by-step instructions to connect to the Virtual Private Network (VPN) client Cisco AnyConnect using a Windows 10 computer. If you need to download the client, visit our Downloads & Guides page to download the client and find installation instructions. Both Full and Split Tunnel VPN Pools and certain Departmental Pools require Duo Two Factor Authentication to connect, using Duo and VPN is outlined in VPN: Using Duo Append Mode with Cisco AnyConnect. For assistance in connecting, including Login Failed messages, contact Technology Help for assistance.

Connecting to VPN with AnyConnect

  1. Navigate to Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client from the Start menu.
    • Start menu button in Windows 10 > All apps > Cisco > Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client
  2. Select your connection preference from the drop-down menu. 
    Cisco AnyConnect Client. The Connect To menu is highlighted.
    Cisco AnyConnect Client. The Full Tunnel option is now present.
    • UMN - Split Tunnel - General Access VPN Pool: For most UofM VPN needs, including shared drive access.
    • AnyConnect - UofMvpnFull - Uses a UofM IP address for entirety of connection.
    • Departmental Pools - Your department may require use of their VPN Pool. 
      • Select your specific departmental pool after clicking 'Connect'.
  3. If you can't see ANY options here, uninstall the client completely and download and install the newest version from our Downloads & Guides page, making sure to extract the ENTIRE AnyConnect folder, not just the installer file.
  4. Click Connect.
  5. Enter your Internet ID and password in the sign in window.
  6. Click OK.

Using AnyConnect

Where did the client go?

  • The AnyConnect Client window may close once the connection is established
    • Select the up-arrow in the lower-right hand corner of the taskbar (   Windows 10 Show hidden icons button) to find AnyConnect
      • Hover your mouse over the Cisco AnyConnect logo to see a "tooltip" showing the status of the VPN connection
      • If you can't find the icon, hovering over different icons will tell you the name of the program each icon opens
        Hidden Icons menu on taskbar. The AnyConnect icon and its tooltip are highlighted.

View general connectivity information

  • Open the Cisco AnyConnect Client by clicking the logo in the taskbar on the bottom right.
    • Click the Settings Icon.
    • Select the Statistics tab.

Disconnect from VPN

  • Open the Cisco AnyConnect Client by clicking the logo in the task bar on the bottom right.
  • Click Disconnect.