Overview

The Yale VPN (Virtual Private Network) enables individuals to access Yale resources from off-campus locations securely. 

VPN is not required for accessing services such as Zoom, Canvas, Workday, Office 365, EliApps, the Software Library, and others. 

When to Use

• You are off-campus and need to access one of Yale's applications/services that requires a VPN connection (NetID sign-in required to view).
• You are connected to a public network (Cafe, Airport, etc.) and need to establish a secure connection

Steps to install Cisco Secure Client VPN software

Yale managed Windows and Mac Computers

All Yale-managed Windows and Mac computers automatically have the Cisco Secure Client installed.

• For Windows, use the Windows search bar to search for Cisco Secure Client by name. 
• For Macs, the Cisco Secure Client can be found in the Mac's Applications folder.

Non-managed/personal computers

Download and install Cisco Secure Client from the IT Software Library (recommended)

1. Visit the IT Software Library for Windows, Mac, and Linux application downloads.
2. Sign in with your NetID and password in the top right of the page.
3. Once signed in, search for "Cisco" in the search bar.
4. Within the Cisco VPN Client application, select the download for your type of device from the Choose a platform dropdown menu. 

Download and install Cisco Secure Client from a web browser

1. Visit access.yale.edu
2. Log in with your NetID, NetID password, and your two-factor authentication method
3. Select the link for your operating system
4. Once installation is complete, follow the instructions above to connect to Yale's VPN

Steps to connect to Yale VPN

1. Launch the Cisco Secure Client.
2. Enter the Connect-To server address: access.yale.edu
   • If the address field has been changed or is blank, please manually type the server name and select Enter
3. Log in with your Email, NetID password, and your two-factor authentication method
   • Username: First.Last@yale.edu
     • If you do not have an email address, you can use NetID@yale.edu (for NetID, enter your own NetID)
   • Password: Yale NetID password
4. Approve in the DUO mobile app for "push", answer the call, and press 1# for "phone", or enter a bypass code
   • Click "Other Options" to choose your authentication method
5. You will then be connected to the VPN
6. Disconnect from the VPN when it is no longer required

Common Issues

Issue	Resolution
Can't find Cisco Secure Client on a Yale-managed Windows/Mac Computer	If no results are shown when searching the computer/reviewing the applications folder, contact the Help Desk for further assistance.
I do not have a Yale email to sign into the VPN	If you do not have a Yale email address, you can use NetID@yale.edu for the login (for NetID, enter your own NetID).

Related Articles

• Applications Requiring VPN Access (Requires NetID sign-in to view)
• Set up and connect to VPN with your iOS device
• Set up and connect to VPN with your Android device

Need Further Assistance?

Contact the ITS Help Desk via your preferred method. 

• Phone: 203-432-9000
  • Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (Escalation support remains available after hours, on weekends, and during holidays for time-sensitive, health, life, or safety critical issues).
• Schedule a Callback
• Visit an in-person support center