How to Use Cisco AnyConnect (Biola's VPN)

Introduction

This page explains the steps for connecting to Biola VPN on a Mac or a Windows PC.

VPN allows authorized users to connect to Biola's local, on-campus network from off campus.

Before beginning this procedure, you must have an active VPN account and install Cisco AnyConnect (How to Install Cisco AnyConnect (Biola's VPN)).

All staff and faculty VPN accounts are active by default. Non-employee (students, alumni, etc.) access must be requested by an employee. This access can be requested through the access request form here.

Need to know how to install and configure Cisco AnyConnect? Please see our How to Install Cisco AnyConnect (Biola's VPN) page.

How to Use Cisco AnyConnect on Mac

Step	What to do	How It Looks
1	Open Cisco AnyConnect. The application is stored in Macintosh HD/Applications/Cisco.
2	When prompted, type "vpn.biola.edu" into the field if it isn't there already.
3	Click Connect.
	Select the Biola_VPN group.
	Enter your Biola email address, then click Next.
	Enter your Biola password when prompted, and click Sign in.
	Upon 1st-time login, more information is required and you will be prompted for the multifactor method you wish to use. You may use the MS Authenticator smartphone app, or select I want to use a different method to use a phone number. Make your choice, and then select Next.
	If you selected I want to use a different method, then enter your phone number, and select Next.
	If you select Yes when prompted to Stay signed in? your login info will be saved in the AnyConnect client for 60 days.
	On future AnyConnect login attempts, you will be prompted to approve your sign in request with a second factor. Approve the request using the Microsoft Authenticator app, or click I can't use my Microsoft Authenticator app right now to use your predefined second factor.
	You're connected to Biola VPN!
6	To disconnect from AnyConnect, click on the AnyConnect icon in the menu bar at the top of the screen, and select Disconnect.

How to Use Cisco AnyConnect on Windows

Step	What to Do	How It Looks
1	Open Cisco AnyConnect. You can find it by opening the Start menu, and searching for "anyconnect".
2	When prompted, type "vpn.biola.edu" into the field if it isn't there already.
3	Click Connect.
4	If prompted, enter your NetID and password, then click OK.
5	To disconnect from AnyConnect, click the arrow in the System Tray, then right-click on the AnyConnect icon and select "VPN Disconnect".