Summary
RamsVPN is a Virtual Private Network (VPN) that provides a secure connection to the VCU network over a public network.
Environment
- RamsVPN
- Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client
- VCU Network
- DUO
- Remote Gatekeeper
Solution
CAUTION: The RamsVPN will be decommissioned on July 6th, 2026. Please review the article on remote access options for VCU applications and servers.
Although you may be connecting from a remote location, the VPN makes the connection work as if you were on a direct connection to the VCU campus network.
VPN Client Setup:
- Download the Cisco AnyConnect Client application.
- Open or double-click the installer that you downloaded.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. Installation guides are available here:
Connect to RamsVPN:
NOTE: There is a new requirement to login to Remote Gatekeeper prior to using the RamsVPN. This is only required when you are offsite (i.e. at home, starbucks, etc). Users will need to request access to use Remote Gatekeeper through a Ramscentral Ticket. You can learn more about Remote Gatekeeper in the help article.
- If located off-site, login to remotegatekeeper.vcu.edu
- Access to Remote Gatekeeper must have previously been requested and granted
- Open Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client, installed in the previous step.
- Enter ramsvpn.vcu.edu in the connection field.
- Click Connect.
- The Username and Password are your eID and password.
- Second Password depends on your preferred method of second factor authentication (click here for details).
- Duo Push - Second Password: push
- Duo Passcode - Second Password: Enter the code generated in the Duo Mobile App, ex. 123456
- DUO-brand keychain token - Second Password: Enter the code from the screen of your token, ex. 123456
- YubiKey - Second Password: Click into the Second Password field, plug in your YubiKey, then tap the YubiKey button
- Click Accept.