Connect to a Departmental VPN (Virtual Private Network)

Learn how to access your department's VPN from on or off campus.

Applies To: UB faculty and staff connecting to departmental VPNs  

Last Updated: May 30 2023

Instructions

  1. Make sure Cisco Secure Connect is installed on your computer
  2. Select Start > All Programs > Cisco > Cisco Secure Connect VPN Client > Cisco Secure Connect VPN Client.
  3. The first time you connect, you must enter vpn.buffalo.edu in the Connect to field. Click Select
    • A window may pop up asking "Do you trust this remote connection?" If so, click Connect.
    • A window may pop up alerting you that "The identity of the remote computer cannot be verified." If so, click Yes.
  4. From the Group drop-down menu, select your department's VPN.
  5. Enter your UBITName in the Username field.
  6. Enter your UBITName password in the Password field.
  7. Click OK.

Security keys and touch ID are not compatible with departmental VPNs.

7. Provide your Duo two-step verification. In the Answer field:

  • Enter the device number (e.g., 1 through 4) or device alias (e.g., push1, etc.) that corresponds to the verification method you wish to use
    OR
  • Enter a passcode

Note: Device aliases may appear if you have 4 or more devices enrolled in Duo. You can look up a list of your enrolled devices and their aliases by logging into the Duo Two Step Verification Manager and choosing VPN Device Aliases.

Zoom image: 4 or fewer devices (250 characters or less), enter the number of the device you want to use or a passcode. 5 or more (more than 250 characters), enter a passcode or else enter the response for the enrolled device you want to use (e.g., push1 or phone1) Your options may appear different than those shown, depending what applications you enrolled in Duo. 4 or fewer devices (250 characters or less), enter the number of the device you want to use or a passcode. 5 or more (more than 250 characters), enter a passcode or else enter the response for the enrolled device you want to use (e.g., push1 or phone1) Your options may appear different than those shown, depending what applications you enrolled in Duo.

Common questions

How long may I stay connected to the VPN?

You may stay connected for up to 24 consecutive hours of use before you are disconnected. Your connection may remain idle for up to 3 consecutive hours before you are disconnected.

Why do I need to confirm with Duo each time?

Duo with VPN does not have "remember me" functionality.

See also

Still need help?

Contact the UBIT Help Center.