Virtual Private Network (VPN): Advanced Instructions for Connecting to Secure Client via Command Line on Windows

The Command Line Interface (CLI) is a mechanism for interacting with a computer operating system or software by typing commands to perform specific tasks, and is a valid way to use Secure Client. The CLI has a command parser that will aid you in connecting, disconnecting, and gathering statistics. For most, the Graphic User Interface (GUI) is preferred, and a simpler means of connecting, using the GUI to connect is outlined in Connect to Secure Client VPN.

File System Paths

The default path, or unique location, of the Cisco Secure Client VPN for Windows file system is: C:\Program Files (x86)\Cisco\Cisco Secure Client\

Command Line Access

  1. Press the Windows Key or the Start button, and type Command Prompt in the search bar.
  2. Double-click or press Enter to launch Command Prompt.
  3. Type cd C:\Program Files (x86)\Cisco\Cisco Secure Client and press Enter to change the directory.
  4. Type vpncli.exe connect tc-vpn-1.vpn.umn.edu and press Enter to launch the application.
  5. You will see a numbered list of pools, type the number that corresponds with the appropriate pool and press Enter.
    • In most cases, AnyConnect-UofMSplit would be the appropriate group.
  6. The default Internet ID is in square braces [ ], if that is correct, press Enter. Otherwise type the correct Internet ID, and press Enter.
  7. Type in your password when prompted, press Enter. Then complete the default Duo Push or Phone Call.
  8. When connected, you should see the line, >> state: Connected.
    • If you did not connect you should see the line, >>Login Failed, and will be presented with the pool selection prompt again.
  9. To disconnect type vpncli.exe disconnect and press Enter.

Collecting Logs

Exporting information from the Cisco Secure Mobility Client and Diagnostic and Reporting Tools can help locate and isolate a connection problem.

Diagnostic Logs

  1. Launch Cisco Secure Client Diagnostics and Reporting.
  2. Click Next, select Default log bundle, and click Next.
  3. A Dart Bundle (.zip) will be created on the desktop.
    • For troubleshooting purposes, you will likely be asked to attach this file as an email response to the ticket.

Statistic Logs

  1. Launch Cisco Secure Mobility Client, then click on the Advanced Window cog icon.
  2. The Cisco Secure Client VPN Client window will open to the Statistics tab.
    • Several sub-menus with individual panes will be displayed. Click on each to see that specific information.
  3. Click the Export Stats button, and choose the file destination to export statistics.

Additional Information

For additional assistance troubleshooting or connecting, please contact Technology Help.

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