How to Set Up & Use Missouri State's VPN

Summary

Guide to connecting to a Missouri State network resource from off campus on a Windows or MacOS computer.

Body

Use 'Request Service' or explore 'Related Services' for further assistance.

The purpose of the VPN is to provide a secure & encrypted method for transferring data. As a convenience to faculty, staff, and students many network resources can be accessed off-campus with use of the VPN. This includes file servers, internal websites, and workstations.

VPN Access: Access to the VPN is assigned to those who require it for a university business or academic function. To request access, submit an Access Request in the IT Service Portal. Include a short description of the academic or business reason you are requesting VPN access.

How to Set Up & Use Missouri State's VPN on Windows or Mac Device

Open your browser and navigate to https://vpn.missouristate.edu/
In the Login window, select the default GROUP *MissouriState, then click Login.
You will be directed to a Missouri State authentication window that requires your Missouri State Account login information.
After a successful sign-in, you will be directed to the VPN installer download page. Click the Instructions link on the lower right of the page.
Instructions will appear on the screen below (you may need to scroll down to see.) It will detect the operating system of your computer and provide appropriate steps for your specific device. Follow the steps provided.
When opening the Cisco Secure Client, type in "vpn.missouristate.edu" in the text box next to the Connect button:

How to Connect to Special VPN Group

Some departments or areas utilize special VPN groups other than the default *Missouri State. If you are a member of a special VPN group, you'll be provided this information by your department. Follow these steps to connect to your assigned VPN group.

Type vpn.missouristate.edu. Then click Connect.
Two screens will pop up simultaneously: the Cisco AnyConnect Group selection window, and the Misssouri State sign-in window.
Select the Cisco AnyConnect Group selection screen. This may be hidden behind the Missouri State sign-in page. You may need to move the sign-in window out of the way using your mouse or ALT+Tab on your keyboard. Do not close the Missouri State sign-in window. Doing so will cancel the login.
From the Cisco AnyConnect Group selection box, select your assigned group from the drop-down options.
You will be directed to a page to enter your Missouri State Account ID (abc123) and password. Then click OK.
You will receive a prompt from your selected multi-factor authentication method to approve connection.
If you are already connected to the VPN and you want to change the group, it can be difficult because the client will log you in automatically without giving you the opportunity to change groups. If you type a slash and your group name when you connect (e.g. VPN.MissouriState.edu/mygroup) it will connect you directly to the group you chose.
Once connected, there will be an AnyConnect icon in the lower right corner of the taskbar with a lock showing that you are connected to the Missouri State VPN and are ready to access Missouri State resources from off-campus.