What is VPN?

VPN stands for "virtual private network" - a service that protects your internet connection and privacy online. It creates an encrypted tunnel for your data, protects your online identity by hiding your IP address, and allows you to use public Wi-Fi hotspots safely.

When to use VPN

FIU's VPN is available at no cost for all students, faculty, and staff.

Connecting to FIU

FIU's VPN service provides secure remote access to the FIU network and makes it appear as if your computer were physically attached to the campus network. When connected to the VPN you may access resources on the FIU network that are not typically available outside of FIU's network.

Privacy and Security

Using a VPN encrypts your Internet connection to prevent hackers from viewing your online communications, location, and browsing activity.

Remote work / Online classes

While outside of FIU, you often connect to public or semi-public Wi-Fi networks in places like airports, cafes, hotels, or train stations. Anyone on the same unsecure network can potentially access your unencrypted data. Using the VPN is essentially a private network that only you can access, so you minimize the risk of theft or a data breach.

Connecting to VPN

FIU implements the Cisco AnyConnect VPN client to allow FIU users to connect on and off-campus to the FIU network through a Secure Socket Layer (SSL) protocol.

Download

Select your OS below to download the AnyConnect client

Windows MacOS Linux iOS Android

Requirements

Your computer must meet certain minimum requirements to access internal FIU resources while on VPN.

When connecting to the VPN, the AnyConnect client will automatically install the VPN Posture module - a module utilized to manage systems and enforces security controls.

VPN Posture (System Scan) FAQ Getting Started with Two-Factor Authentication How-to: Enable a Firewall on Windows & Mac

Supported Antivirus Software

Select your appropriate OS for a list of supported AntiVirus software supported with the VPN Posture module.

List of Approved AntiVirus Options for Mac (Ensure Definition State Check is "yes") List of Approved AntiVirus Options for PC (Ensure Definition State Check is "yes")

Supported Operating Systems

The AnyConnect VPN client supports Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems. To use VPN on a mobile device, the AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client is required.

VPN Cisco AnyConnect Client : Supported Devices & How to Download