VPN Access Guide – Requesting, Installing, and Using Cisco AnyConnect

Tags VPN Faculty

Intended Audience: Faculty and Staff

Summary

This article explains how to request and use PVAMU’s Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN is a secure connection that allows you to access PVAMU resources remotely as if you were on campus. PVAMU provides VPN access through the Cisco AnyConnect client, ensuring your connection is encrypted and protected when working off-site.

Problem

Some PVAMU resources—such as internal applications, file shares, or administrative systems—are not available outside the campus network. Without VPN access, faculty, staff, and contractors may be unable to perform required work securely when off-site.

Solution

PVAMU provides a secure Virtual Private Network (VPN) service through Cisco AnyConnect.

  • Faculty & Staff: Available to all regular, full-time employees with a valid PVAMU Domain AD account.

  • Authorized Contractors: Must also have an active PVAMU Domain AD account.

  • If you currently use VPN but have not submitted a VPN request to the Office of Information Resource Management, you must complete the VPN form.

How to Request Access

  • Faculty & Staff:

    • Submit a Remote Access/VPN Request to informationsecurity@pvamu.edu.

    • Include a letter of justification describing what resources you will access.

    • Requests for resources that do not require VPN will be denied.

    • For file access, IT recommends Microsoft OneDrive instead of VPN.

  • Authorized Contractors:

    • Ensure you have an active PVAMU Domain AD account.

    • Complete the Special Purpose AD Account Request Form.

    • Submit the Remote Access/VPN Request Form online.

Use Guidelines

  • Connect only when needed; disconnect when done to conserve bandwidth.

  • Reserve VPN for applications or systems that require it. Use OneDrive for basic file access when possible.

Steps

Install Cisco AnyConnect (PVAMU-Managed Computers)

  • Installation requires administrative privileges.

  • For PVAMU devices, call the Help Desk at 936-261-2525 for installation or remote assistance.

  • If Cisco AnyConnect is already installed, skip to the Connect/Disconnect section.

Connect / Disconnect (Windows & macOS)

Connect

  1. Open Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client.

    • Windows: Start Menu → Cisco → Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client

    • macOS: Applications → Cisco → Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client

  2. In the VPN/Connect to field, enter the PVAMU VPN server address (example: vpn.pvamu.edu or preloaded PVAMU-VPN).

  3. Click Connect.

  4. Enter your PVAMU Domain/AD username and password.

  5. If prompted, approve the MFA request.

  6. Wait until the status shows Connected.

Disconnect

  1. Open Cisco AnyConnect.

  2. Click Disconnect.

  3. Confirm the VPN status shows Disconnected.

Basic Troubleshooting

  • Login fails: Verify your username and password; reset your password if needed.

  • Not authorized: Your VPN request may still be pending or unapproved—contact informationsecurity@pvamu.edu.

  • Profile/server missing: Type the PVAMU VPN server address manually or contact the Help Desk.

  • No network: Ensure Wi-Fi or a stable internet connection before launching VPN.

Notes

  • VPN should be used only when required. Disconnect when no longer accessing PVAMU resources.

  • Do not share credentials or leave VPN sessions unattended.

  • Access is governed by PVAMU security policy; misuse may result in revoked access.

  • For assistance, contact the Help Desk at 936-261-2525.

 

Authorized Contractors

To access the Prairie View University VPN service, you should have an active PVAMU Domain AD account.

Please access and complete the Special Purpose AD Account Request Form.

Please complete and submit the Remote Access Request/VPN Form online.

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