VPN: University VPN Install and Connection Guide for Mac
Installing and Connecting to the University VPN
These steps are for downloading, installing and connecting to the University VPN client via Mac. Every member of the University community with a NetID has access to download the VPN Client. If you need assistance with the DUHS connection, please contact the DHTS Service Desk at 919-684-2243.
Table of Contents
How to Download the VPN Software
1) Open a browser and go to software.duke.edu.
2) Log in and search for “VPN”.
3) Select the correct version of the software for your device and click "Add to Cart". For Macs running MacOS Tahoe, please select that option.
4) Go to your Cart and click "Checkout".
5) Fill in your billing information (if you have not done so already) and click "Continue to Review".
6) Review your billing information and click "Complete Checkout".
7) Your order is now complete and you can access it on the "My Orders" page.
8) Once on the orders page, click "Get Software" for the VPN client.
9) Under the Download Information section, click on the VPN client for MacOS and the Cisco Secure Client installer should start downloading automatically.
How to Install the VPN Software
Note: You must have admin rights on your Mac to install software.
1) Double-click on the installer once it has been downloaded.
2) Double-click on Cisco Secure Client.pkg to start the installation process.
3) Once the install wizard opens, click "Continue".
4) Review the Agreement and click "Continue".
5) Click "Agree".
6) On the package selection screen, uncheck all options except AnyConnect VPN and Diagnostics and Reporting Tool. Click "Continue".
7) Click "Install".
8) When installation is complete, click "Close".
9) You can then choose to Keep the installation package in your Downloads folder or you can Move to Trash.
1) Upon successful installation, please open Cisco Secure Client from the Cisco folder in your Applications folder.
2) Once opened, it will say Ready to connect and should have the server address pre-filled in the server field. If the address/server field is blank, enter vpn.duke.edu (or portal.duke.edu). Click "Connect".
3) The credential window will pop-up. The most common "Group" is "-Default-". This should only be changed if you have been instructed to do so. Type your NetID and NetID password. Click OK.
4) Enter the number for the appropriate MFA option.
5) The VPN client will now connect. You can check if you are connected by looking at the menu bar for a lock on the Cisco Secure Client symbol or you can open the VPN client and it should say "Connected to vpn.duke.edu".
If you need further assistance, contact your local IT support group/person.
You can also contact your appropriate Service Desk:
University Users: OIT Service Desk - 919 684 2200
Duke Health Users: DHTS Service Desk - 919 684 2243
Article number: KB0014020
Valid to: December 19, 2026