Using VPN in Windows 7

Introduction

The instructions on this page will guide you through installing the VPN client on your Windows 7 computer. 

NOTE: The VPN client cannot be installed on a computer connected to the Hamilton network, either via Wi-Fi or a Network Jack.  These instructions should only be followed on an OFF-CAMPUS computer. 

Introductory and Instructional Video

This video will help you understand why VPN is being used at Hamilton and will guide you through the installation and use of the VPN client:  

Installation Instructions

1. To begin your installation, open your web browser. This demonstration uses Firefox, but you may use any browser. If you receive a message stating that the web-based installation was unsuccessful, perform a manual installation by following the steps on this page.
2. In the location box, type the URL https://outside.hamilton.edu. Note the ‘s’: you must type.
3. When you receive the message indicating that your connection is insecure,
   1. Click on I understand the risks,
   2. Then click on Add Exception.
4. In the Add Security Exception window that pops up,
   1. Confirm that Permanently store this exception is checked,
   2. Then click the Confirm Security Exception button.
5. In the login dialog you see,
   1. Enter your Hamilton network ID and password,
   2. Then click Login
6. Pay attention to the warning regarding unauthorized use.
   1. Remember, this includes family members.
7. The Cisco AnyConnect VPN Client installer will start automatically.
   1. When the security pop-up screen appears, verify that Always trust content from this publisher is checked,
   2. Then click the Run button.

NOTE: If you receive a window that indicates the automated installation failed.  Please follow our instructions for a manual installation.

8. The VPN Client Downloader will start.
   1. When the installation is finished, a connection to Hamilton will be started automatically.
9. The Connection Established message includes a screen shot of the icon that you will find on the right side of your applications tray.
10. Click on the icon to verify your connection, or to disconnect when you are finished with your session.

Connecting and Disconnecting

1. When you want to start a new connection to the VPN,
   1. Simply click on the VPN icon in your Windows desktop tray,
   2. Then click on Connect in the pop-up menu.
2. The Cisco AnyConnect Client will open with the Connection tab on top.
   1. Enter your Hamilton network ID and password,
   2. Then click the Connect button.
3. A dialog window with the warning against unauthorized use will pop-up.
   1. To continue, you must click the Accept button.
4. You will then be connected to the Hamilton VPN.
   1. You can confirm this by mousing over the VPN icon in your Windows desktop tray, and receiving the message indicating that the VPN client is connected.
5. At this point, you will be connected to all of your normal Hamilton College network resources.
   1. Clicking on Computer on your desktop or in the Start menu will show you your network drives, including your personal and department folders on ESS.
   2. If you wish to start a Remote Desktop connection to your office computer, you can safely initiate that session now.
6. Remember to disconnect your session when you are finished.
   1. Just click on the VPN icon in the tray, then click Disconnect.

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