EMCC resources can be accessed remotely using the campus Cisco Secure AnyConnect VPN solution. A VPN provides a secure and encrypted connection across the Internet to the campus network. While connected using the VPN, your laptop will behave as if it is on the campus network. This allows you to access internal-only systems, receive software updates, and enjoy other benefits.
Below are the instructions for installing the Cisco Secure AnyConnect VPN client, configuring your connection, and logging in. You can use the following links to jump directly to any of the sections.
💽 Preface
Cisco Secure Client will only be installed and available if you have requested a staff checkout laptop recently.
These systems should have come with the Cisco Secure Client pre-installed on it. If your laptop has the application already installed, you may skip down to the Connecting to Cisco Secure Client VPN (AnyConnect) section of this Knowledge Base Article (KB). If you do not have Cisco Secure Client installed on your laptop, please proceed to the Installing Cisco Secure Client section of this KB.
Note: If you have had your staff checkout laptop for some time (at least a few semester before Fall 2024, you will most likely not have the Cisco Secure Client installed on your machine.
Should you require assistance or are experiencing any issues, please contact the I.T. Helpdesk via:
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phone by dialing 623-935-8999 (ext. 58999)
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email at helpdesk@estrellamountain.edu
On campus the I.T. Helpdesk Office is located in Estrella Hall S 212 (ESTS112), which is beside the Academic Success Center.
Installing Cisco Secure Client
You can download and install the Secure Client from the portal and it will have the profile already set for you by visiting the following site: connect.estrellamountain.edu
- Once you have accessed the site, hit the download button to obtain the Cisco Secure Client application.
- Once the download has completed, proceed with opening the executable file via Downloads from your web browser (or accessing the Downloads folder from the File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (macOS). A setup window for Cisco Secure Client will pop-up, press the Next button.
3. Accept the terms in the License Agreement.
4. Proceed with installing Cisco Secure Client.
💻 Connecting to Cisco Secure Client VPN (AnyConnect)
Follow these instructions to connect to the Cisco Secure Client on your Windows or macOS device.
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Open the Cisco Secure Client.
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macOS: Go to Finder, then Applications, open the Cisco folder, then select Cisco Secure Client.
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Windows: Go to Start Menu, then All apps, open the Cisco folder, then select Cisco Secure Client.
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or simply type in Cisco Secure Client in the search bar from the desktop.
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Type in connect.estrellamountain.edu in the field (if it is not already set in place for you) and click the Connect button.
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A Maricopa login splash webpage will open on your web browser, login with your MEID and password. Once you hit Enter, check your phone for a DUO prompt.
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You will now get a Duo push. Approve your Duo push.
Be ready, it only gives you a couple seconds to approve.
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Your Cisco Secure client is now set up! It should display that you are successfully connected to AnyConnect VPN.
💻 Disconnecting from the VPN
Once you are done working remotely/off-campus for the day, it is imperative that you click the Disconnect button on the Cisco Secure Client.
NOTE: It is important to Disconnect before closing or shutting off the computer. If you do not the next time you open your computer it will attempt to connect automatically. It will send Duo pushes and if you do not respond it will continue to attempt to connect. After 5 attempts it will lock your MEID account for 15 minutes.
To Disconnect, open up Cisco Secure Client and click on the Disconnect button. When you click on this AnyConnect VPN will disconnect.
If you should have difficulties or issues with this process, please contact the I.T. Helpdesk by dialing 623-935-8999 (ext. 58999) or by email at helpdesk@estrellamountain.edu.