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University Technology Services

• Virtual Private Networking
  • VPN Home
  • Windows & Mac
  • iPhone, iPad
  • Android
  • Frequently Asked Questions
• UTS Home

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. The VPN Client software allows you to connect to the McMaster University network from an off-campus computer anywhere on the Internet and appear as though your computer is on campus. It also provides extra security by encrypting data to and from your computer, in effect creating a private tunnel through the Internet for your communication. Once your data reaches the McMaster campus, it is then unencrypted by the VPN server. The service is available to all Staff.

• You access McMaster from an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and are concerned about someone eavesdropping on your session.
• You are transferring sensitive information (passwords, research data, personal information etc.), between your home computer and the University
• You need access to a McMaster resource from home that might not otherwise be accessible because of a firewall or some other access control.
• You need a McMaster University IP address to access a resource at the University.

Select the installer appropriate to your operating system or device. AnyConnect for iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch Touch is available from the iTunes App Store. AnyConnect for some Android phones is available from the Android Market.

Note: Cisco AnyConnect VPN is not supported for Linux or Android at this time. The software is available for use, however documentation and support for installing or using the application are not offered by Technology Services.

Step 1: Download Cisco AnyConnect VPN Client

1. Uninstall any previous versions of Cisco VPN.

2. Select and download the Cisco AnyConnect VPN Client for your operating system. Note: To download software, you will be asked for your MAC ID.

3. Operating System	Size	Updated	Version	Download
   Windows (XP+)	3.5MB	03/03/2012	3.0.5080
   MacOS X 10.5 +	7.8MB	03/03/2012	3.0.5080
   Mac PowerPC	3.4MB	03/03/2012	2.5.3046
   Linux (32 Bit)	6.1MB	03/03/2012	3.0.5080
   Linux (64 Bit)	4.1MB	03/03/2012	3.0.5080

4. Windows users should run the downloaded installer. Mac OSX users should run the downloaded disk image file (.dmg) and run the AnyConnect installer.

5. Follow the onscreen instructions and select the defaults to install.

For more information about versions and other issues, access the VPN FAQ.