Purdue is updating the VPN sign-in experience for Cisco Secure Client. As part of this change, VPN authentication will use Purdue's Microsoft Entra ID sign-in process.
What Is Changing?
When connecting to the VPN, users will no longer complete authentication entirely within Cisco Secure Client. Instead, Cisco Secure Client will automatically open a browser window or tab to complete sign-in and Microsoft multifactor authentication (MFA).
After successfully signing in and completing MFA, users can close the browser tab and Cisco Secure Client will automatically complete the VPN connection.
Important: The Default sign-in method setting on the My Sign-Ins page is no longer used to determine the authentication method for VPN sign-in. During the VPN sign-in process, Microsoft Entra ID determines which authentication methods are available and will prompt users based on their registered methods. Users should ensure their authentication methods are up to date and accessible.
What to Expect
When connecting to the VPN:
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Open Cisco Secure Client.
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Enter the VPN profile name (for example, webvpn.purdue.edu) and select Connect.
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A browser window or tab will automatically open.
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Sign in with your Purdue email address and password.
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Complete Microsoft MFA using your registered authentication method.
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After authentication is successful, return to Cisco Secure Client to complete the connection.
Note: Opening a separate browser window or tab during VPN sign-in is expected behavior and is required for authentication.
Need Help?
If you encounter issues connecting to the VPN after this change, contact your campus's Purdue IT Service Desk.