VPN - Setup and Connect using the AnyConnect App for Mac

This tutorial shows the process of downloading and setting up the Cisco AnyConnect application to connect to CU Boulder's VPN service on macOS 10.14 Mojave, 10.15 Catalina and 11.0 Big Sur.

Please note: If you've already downloaded and installed the application, skip to step 7 for use instructions.

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Step

Download and install Cisco AnyConnect for Mac

Please note: If you have upgraded to macOS 11.0 Big Sur, be sure to upgrade to the most recent version of Cisco AnyConnect to avoid compatibility issues.

Step

If you are currently using AnyConnect for another VPN, you do not need to reinstall the application. You only need to add the new profile, as shown in the remaining steps. 

Step

Open the installer download. The products that will be installed from the package will be listed. Click Continue and go through the installation prompts. Click Close when the installer has finished.

Step

Non-DDS managed computers will recieve an error that requires users to allow a new system extension. Click Open Security Preferences. 

Please note: This screenshot is from a machine running macOS Big Sur. Other macOS versions may look slightly different.

Step

In System Preferences > Security & Privacy, click Allow to approve the extension. You may need to click the lock in the bottom left corner and enter administrator credentials to change this setting. 

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On computers running Big Sur: Click Allow to confirm the Network Content Filter.

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Search for Cisco AnyConnect Security Mobility Client using the spotlight search in the top toolbar of your mac, or find your applications folder. 

Step

After the initial download the application is likely in a folder labeled Cisco, located in Applications. Whether you locate it from the Applications folder or using the spotlight search, open the Cisco AnyConnect Security Mobility Client application. 

Step

Type vpn.colorado.edu into the VPN: textfield, then click Connect.

*Note: Advanced users and system administrators should enter vpn.colorado.edu/limited in this field. Custom VPNs in the format of vpn.colorado.edu with /thecustomaddress appended should also be entered in this field, if applicable.

Step

When prompted to login, enter your IdentiKey username and password, then click OK.

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You will now be connected to the CU Boulder VPN service. All your internet activity will be routed securely through the VPN.

*Note: For future connections, the vpn.colorado.edu connection can now be selected from the the drop-down menu in step 9.

Step

Click the Disconnect button to end your session.