Download Cisco AnyConnect

Download the Cisco Anyconnect software:

Click here to access and download the anyconnect-mac.dmg file from the Sharepoint site.

Launch Installer

Open the disk image (your browser may have done this for you already) and double click on the installer inside it to begin the installation process. Click Continue.

Follow steps

Follow through the installer steps and at its completion you should receive confirmation that the installation was successful.

System Extension Approval

You may see a prompt regarding the installation of a System Extension. This is a new security measure to ensure that the installation of new extensions is approved by a user to mitigate the risk of malware installation. Please follow the steps to enable the installation of the Cisco extension.

macOS Big Sur users may need to complete some additional steps due to the new protections and System Extension framework which have been introduced.

If it fails..

If you get an Install failed message, please check again that you do not have any prior installations of a VPN client installed such as OpenVPN and / or TunnelBlick as this will prevent the AnyConnect installer from running correctly. If the problem persists please contact the IT Services Helpdesk.

Launching AnyConnect

Launch the AnyConnect client from the Cisco folder in Applications.

If this is the first time you have used the client then click on the Cog symbol in the window to edit your Preferences. In the window which opens ensure Allow local (LAN) access when using VPN (if configured) is ticked and then close the window.

Configure AnyConnect

If this is the first time you have run AnyConnect, enter vpn.lboro.ac.uk  (you only to do this once) and click on Connect.‌

When prompted, enter your University Username and Password. Click Connect.

After submitting your credentials, the AnyConnect client will pause, and a notification should pop up on your phone asking you to approve or deny the connection.

Approve MFA request

 'Approve' the MFA request on the Duo app and the VPN client should continue to connect.

Connected AnyConnect

The following will be displayed for a successful connection: (Further Technical details are available by clicking on the graph button, next to the Preferences Cog).

Connection established

Once this connection has been established your computer will appear like it is on the campus network. Connections to central filestore can be made, applications such as Apple Remote Desktop, or an SSH connection (Secure Shell) from the Terminal can be run, or afp drives can be mounted in order to access Macs on campus.

When AnyConnect is open you will have an icon in the top menu bar. 

Please remember to disconnect from the AnyConnect client as well as quitting the ARD / Terminal when you have finished.