About CUIMC VPN
CUIMC VPN provides a secure way to connect to the campus network and its resources, such as network drives, from off-campus or over unsecured wireless networks. VPN creates an encrypted "tunnel", so data traveling to and from the off-campus system cannot be intercepted or viewed by others.
It is typically required only when accessing CUIMC on-site systems (e.g., a computer via Remote Desktop) and data from remote locations (network drives). For example, a VPN is not needed to access apps.nyp.org for Epic, myColumbia, RASCAL, Teams, OneDrive, many medical journals, etc.
- While most CUIMC faculty, staff and students are automatically approved to use CUIMC VPN, it is restricted to only those Columbia affiliates who have a business or academic need to access CUIMC information assets. For details, see Access to CUIMC VPN for non-affiliates.
- Computers must use a supported operating system and have antivirus software installed and up to date.
- Note that connecting to the CU Morning-Side VPN from within the CUIMC/NYP campus network is NOT allowed
Get Started With VPN
I. Collect information for the resource(s) you will use.
This can include a login or permission for the resource, as well as technical details the off-campus computer or device needs to reach it.
- Network drives have a specific "path" that may need to be set up. Shared or departmental drives require pre-approved access.
- Web-based programs or applications may require special browser configuration as well as any link or web address.
- See the Health Sciences Library's Explore Resources page for databases, journals, etc. Many only require your UNI login rather than a VPN.
- Connecting to a work computer via Remote Desktop requires additional setup by contacting the Service Desk
DO NOT skip this step! If you can't find specific instructions for using a resource from off campus, contact the individuals who manage it or check with your Department Administrator or supervisor.
II. Enroll in CUIMC Multifactor Authentication (MFA) via Duo
CUIMC MFA is required to use the CUIMC VPN. Note that this is a separate account from Columbia Duo MFA. You can review the CUIMC MFA enrollment to set up a CUIMC account that will work with VPN. When you log in to VPN using your credentials, a DUO verification will be required to verify your identity.
III. Set Up Cisco Secure Desktop and Connect
See detailed instructions to install and run on:
A UNI login is required to view instructions.
Troubleshooting
Be sure you are using your Medical Center account and password to log in. This is the same account used for your CUIMC Outlook email credentials.
You must also have enrolled for CUIMC MFA to use the required Duo Passcode field in the VPN login window.
The Cisco Secure Desktop program should automatically check for and install updates when logging in to the VPN. If you have an older version of the CUIMC VPN or experience any issues at any point, please try uninstalling Cisco Secure Desktop completely and reinstalling it.