Connecting by Virtual Private Network

A virtual private network (VPN) allows for a secure connection into a private network over the public network. Although you are connecting from a remote location, the VPN makes the connection work as if you were on a direct connection into our network.

How it works

With Duke's VPN, the connection is made directly over the web by installing a specialized Cisco "client" software package on your computer. The first time you connect to Duke University’s VPN, you will need to visit portal.duke.edu, and the website will detect and install the appropriate version of VPN software on your computer. Once installed, you will see a Cisco folder with the Anyconnect VPN software in it, under program files (for Windows) or in your applications folder (for Mac). From that point, you'll just click on the icon to start a connection.

When you no longer need the VPN connection, right-click the icon in the Taskbar (Windows) or Menu bar (Mac) and select "Quit" or "Disconnect."

To add VPN capability to your mobile device, follow the instructions in the knowledgebase article Duke University VPN for iOS devices.

If you're connecting to Duke Libraries resources: Most library resources are available from off campus through the EZProxy service—no VPN connection necessary. For more information, including how to get help, visit the Duke Libraries EZProxy page.

A secure connection behind department firewalls

Many departments at Duke have their own firewalls. Our VPN is configured to allow authorized people access to those secure areas. When you get to portal.duke.edu, you'll see a drop-down menu of departments. If your department doesn't have a separate firewall, select "Default;" if it does, select your department by name.

Start a VPN connection at portal.duke.edu >

Questions?