The Cisco SSL VPN is a downloadable remote access tool that allows users to access certain protected resources and services while they are away from campus.
The Cisco SSL VPN can be accessed either via an installed piece of software (“AnyConnect”) on your USC or personal computer, or via a web browser. A link to download the client to your computer, as well as a link to access the web VPN, are available in the right-hand toolbar of this page.
If prompted by the Cisco AnyConnect SSL VPN software for a URL to enter to connect to, type in sslvpn.usc.edu. Unless you have specific requirements or are accessing the USC network through the VPN from a location with special network requirements, you will likely want to select the Home or OffCampusOther connection profile. For more information on the different connection profile available and what each one does, visit this page on the USC Information Technology Services site.
The SSL VPN is also available for download as a free smartphone app. For iOS devices, click here or search for “Cisco AnyConnect” on the Apple App Store. For Android devices, click here or search for “AnyConnect” on Google Play.
The SSL VPN also has a feature known as Start Before Logon, which is enabled on Provost IT-configured computers. This feature allows users to login to their Provost accounts on their computers and access Provost IT-provided resources by initiating their connection at the Windows login screen, rather than through opening the application after logging in. For more information on this feature, contact us.
Additional Resources
Eligibility
- Any USC staff, faculty, student, or iVIP
Data Security
- Approved to transmit high, medium, and low-risk data
Pricing
- Free for eligible users