This article has been updated to reflect a new date for when individuals must transition to Cisco Secure Client.
Stanford’s VPN client (Cisco AnyConnect) is being replaced by an upgraded version with a new name — Cisco Secure Client. The rebranded version of the app offers the same user experience and familiar functionality with enhanced security and performance.
What you need to know
Cisco will end software maintenance security and support for AnyConnect on March 31, 2024.
- Those using AnyConnect (version 4.10 or earlier) should transition to Cisco Secure Client (version 5.1.2.42) as soon as possible.
- The upgrade experience will differ depending on which version of the AnyConnect app is currently installed. Starting March 14, 2024, most users will receive the upgrade automatically upon connecting to Stanford’s VPN. However, those upgrading from version 4.8 or earlier will need to download and install it manually.
- Confirm which version of the AnyConnect is being used and click on the upgrade details below to learn more.
(Applicable for Mac, Windows (Intel/ARM), or Linux users upgrading from version 4.10.)
- Starting Thursday, March 14, 2024, the upgrade to Secure Client will be offered automatically upon connecting to the Stanford VPN service. Users can opt to install the upgrade on their device or defer it until a later time.
- Effective Thursday, May 2, 2024, for all eligible systems, users connecting to Stanford’s VPN from a legacy app version will be immediately forced to upgrade to Secure Client.
- Those who prefer to upgrade manually can do so when the new installers become available shortly. Go to Remote Access VPN for updates.
(Applicable for Mac users upgrading from version 4.9 or Windows users upgrading from version 4.9 IF “Check for VPN updates on connect” is enabled.)
- Starting Thursday, March 14, 2024, the upgrade to Secure Client will be offered automatically upon connecting to the Stanford VPN service. Users can opt to install the upgrade on their device or defer it until a later time.
- Effective Thursday, May 2, 2024, for all eligible systems, users connecting to Stanford’s VPN from a legacy app version will be immediately forced to upgrade to Secure Client.
- Those who prefer to upgrade manually can do so when the new installers become available shortly. Go to Remote Access VPN for updates.
Note: Windows users upgrading from 4.9 should follow these steps to enable “Check for VPN updates on connect.”
- Click the gear icon to open client software preferences.
- Check “Check for VPN updates on connect.” Close the window.
(Applicable for Mac or Windows users upgrading from version 4.8.)
Automatic upgrades cannot be offered from version 4.8 and upgrades should be done manually when the new installers become available shortly. Go to Remote Access VPN for updates.
