How to Set Up & Use Missouri State's VPN on a Tablet or Mobile Device

Summary

Guide to connecting to a Missouri State network resource from off campus using a Chromebook, Android or iOS device.

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.

Step-by-Step Guides

How to Install the Cisco AnyConnect Client on Chromebook or Android Device

Before you can utilize the Cisco AnyConnect VPN on your Chromebook or Android Device you must first install the Cisco AnyConnect VPN client.

Locate and open "Play Store" on your Chromebook or Android Device
Search for Cisco AnyConnect using the search box and click or tap the "Install" button
Once installed on your Chromebook or Android Device the Cisco AnyConnect icon will appear on your application screen

How to Configure the Cisco AnyConnect Client on Chromebook or Android Device

Once installed to your Chromebook or Android Device you must then configure the VPN client to connect to the MSU VPN network.

Launch the Cisco AnyConnect client to begin setup.
Click on or tap Connections.
Click or tap on Add New VPN Connection to configure your device to MSU VPN service.
Enter the following VPN connection information:
1. Description: MSU VPN
2. Server Address: VPN.Missouristate.edu
Once you have entered the "Description" and "Server Address" click or tap the Done.
Click or tap the back button to return to the main screen.

How to Establish a VPN Connection on Your Chromebook or Android Device

Now that you have installed and configured your Cisco AnyConnect VPN client to your Chromebook or Android Device you should be ready to login and utilize your VPN connection.

From the main screen of the Cisco AnyConnect app click or tap the toggle next to "AnyConnect VPN"
You will be directed to a Missouri State authentication window that requires your Missouri State Account login information.
After a successful sign-in, the Cisco Anyconnect window will now display a Connected.
You should now have a valid VPN connection and have access to the necessary Missouri State networks and services (e.g., Banner).
To disconnect from the VPN simply click or tap the toggle next to "AnyConnect VPN".

How to Set Up Cisco Anyconnect VPN on your iOS Device

On your iOS device, open the App Store and search for the "Cisco AnyConnect" app.
Select Get to install the free app on your device.
Once the app is installed, open it and select Add VPN Connection...
In the Server box, type vpn.missouristate.edu and then click Save.
Select Allow to allow the AnyConnect app to setup VPN configurations on your device.
Enter any required security information to confirm (FaceID, TouchID, passcode, etc.)
The new VPN will show as enabled. Select the toggle next to AnyConnect VPN to log in and connect to the Missouri State VPN.
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 see a green success checkmark pop up and the AnyConnect app will show that you are connected to the VPN.

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.