Cannot access ISU web pages while connected with Cisco VPN Client

When you are connected with the Cisco VPN Client, you are unable to access ISU websites, but you can still access other (non-ISU) websites.

Troubleshooting Suggestions

While your computer is connected with the Cisco VPN Client, you may be unable to view Illinois State University web pages. This problem has several causes. To troubleshoot this problem, refer to the information below.

Router

If you use a router (or wireless router), try connecting the computer directly to your cable or DSL modem. Then connect with the Cisco VPN Client and see if you can view ISU web pages. If this resolves the problem, your router is blocking some aspect of the Cisco VPN Client.

Typically, port forwarding is not necessary; Cisco VPN Client works fine in conjunction with a router. If you determine your router to be the cause of your problem, you should contact your router manufacturer for assistance.

Firewall Software

If your computer has firewall software installed, temporarily disable it and then try accessing ISU websites again. If this resolves the problem, your firewall software is blocking some aspect of Cisco VPN Client.

The Cisco VPN Client uses three network ports (500 UDP, 4500 UDP, 10000 UDP), which must be opened in your firewall. When you install Cisco VPN Client, it automatically opens these ports in your Windows XP firewall. For more information, see 1156: Opening firewall ports for the Cisco VPN Client.

Remember to enable your firewall software when you are done.

Old or Corrupted Cisco VPN Client

You may be running an outdated version of Cisco VPN Client, or your current installation of Cisco VPN Client may be corrupted. Remove the Cisco VPN Client and install the latest version.

Click Start > Control Panel > Add or Remove Programs.
Select VPN Client from the list of programs and click Remove.
Follow the on-screen instructions to remove the VPN client.
When it has finished uninstalling you MUST restart your computer.
After restarting, download the Cisco VPN Client from the Help Desk website.
Double-click the installer file to install Cisco VPN Client.
When it has finished installing, you MUST restart your computer before trying to connect to VPN.

After removing and reinstalling Cisco VPN Client, connect through VPN again and see if you can view ISU web pages.

Try WebVPN as an Alternative

Try using the Network Connect VPN client, which is a component of WebVPN, as an alternative to the Cisco VPN Client. Network Connect and the Cisco VPN Client provide the same kind of VPN connection for your computer and provide access to the same campus resources. For more information, refer to 1312: Overview of WebVPN.

Article Information

Article ID: 1163
Last Review: Feb 2, 2009
Type: Instructions