This article will describe how to obtain, set up, and use PSU's Cisco VPN client for Windows. What the VPN client does is to create a secure 'tunnel' through the internet from your computer to PSU servers, through which your network traffic passes. Your computer is assigned a PSU network address, and appears to the outside world as a computer on the PSU network. This allows you to use resources that are only accessible from the PSU network, such as Banner, or Remote Desktop connections to your work computer.
Note that PSU's VPN client is optimized for use with Windows XP; users of Windows Vista or Windows 7 may experience issues during the program's installation or use. For more information or help with using the VPN client with one of these operating systems, contact the User Support Services Helpdesk.
- The VPN client uses your ODIN information to authenticate; therefore, you must have an active ODIN account to use the VPN client.
- Only PSU staff/faculty have access to the VPN client.
- Navigate to Myfiles.pdx.edu using Internet Explorer. When prompted, log in with your ODIN account, and click on the '(I:) Resources Folder' link in the center of the page. Navigate to the VPN client folder, and copy the 'Cisco-VPN-Client-5.0.01.0600' file to your desktop.
- Double-click the file to extract and run the installer. Follow the on-screen instructions. You will be required to reboot your computer after a successful installation.
- Once your computer restarts, click on the 'Start' menu and find the 'Cisco Systems VPN Client' folder in the 'Programs' menu. Select the 'VPN Client' to start.
- Once the VPN client opens, double-click on the desired connection. For most applications, the 'PSU Campus Only' connection is the best choice. You will be prompted to enter your ODIN username and password. Once you have done so, click on the 'OK' button.
- You will be greeted by a small pop-up informing you that you are connected to the PSU Campus VPN. Click on the 'Continue' button to complete the connection process.
- When you are done using the VPN, right-click on the small icon of a lock in your System Tray. Select 'Disconnect' from the context menu that appears to close the connection.
- If you have trouble making the VPN connection, try one of the different connection types. For users with home routers or networking hubs, the NAT options may be required to obtain a PSU IP address.
For help or information concerning setting up, using, or troubleshooting the Cisco VPN client, contact the USS Helpdesk.
