AnyConnect Virtual Private Networking (VPN)

Some USC online services require access through on-campus USC Secure Wireless or a wired network connection. USC offers Virtual Private Networking (VPN) to provide secure remote access to these services when you are off-campus. 

VPN, also called IP tunneling, is a secure method of remotely accessing USC computer resources. The VPN encrypts all traffic to and from a computer to prevent others from viewing the information. VPN also provides the user with a virtual USC IP address that allows access to restricted USC resources.

Your USC VPN connection cannot be tested from the USC wired or wireless network. In order to successfully test a VPN connection, you will need to be on an external network such as a hotspot or your home network. If you want to use wireless to connect to the USC Network or if you want to connect to USC restricted resources from your own Internet Service Provider (ISP), you will need to use the AnyConnect VPN client.

Features

Use AnyConnect VPN if you are away from the USC campus and are unable to connect to services. You should be able to use the AnyConnect VPN client over any Internet Service Provider (ISP) that allows IP tunneling and whose web browsers do not require a proxy. To confirm, please contact your ISP. 

All AnyConnect VPN users (students, faculty, staff, and iVIP affiliates) are required to use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) from Duo to safely connect to VPN. Duo’s additional security features enable our remote workforce and students to log in securely and easily. 

The following URLs will still be supported via AnyConnect VPN:

  • vpn.usc.edu
  • sslvpn.usc.edu
  • connect.usc.edu

How do I connect to VPN?

  • Faculty/Non-IT Staff and Students: Use AnyConnect VPN using the following address: vpn.usc.edu. Duo Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is required.
  • IT Employees/SIS Users: Use AnyConnect VPN using the following address: connect.usc.edu. Duo MFA is required.

Additionally, you must use AnyConnect VPN to access internal USC systems handling confidential or sensitive data, such as Student Information Systems (SIS), and file servers for specific schools and departments. You DO NOT need to use AnyConnect VPN when accessing Brightspace, Zoom, Workday, ServiceNow, Microsoft Office 365 or Google Apps at USC.

Eligibility 

  • Available to all current USC faculty, staff, and students. 

Pricing

  • VPN is a free service. 

Helpful Links 

ITS Support 

  • The ITS Service Desk provides support to the USC community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 
  • Call (213) 740-5555 and choose option 2 to receive assistance. 
  • Report an Issue on the ITS Service Portal.
  • Search for information on the ITS Service Portal.