KAUST IT · Network Access

KAUST VPN

The KAUST Virtual Private Network (VPN) lets you connect securely to internal systems and services from anywhere in the world, whether you are traveling, working from home, or accessing restricted resources.

On this page

What it is for Who can access How to connect Security When to use Setup guides Troubleshooting

What the VPN is for

Some KAUST resources are only accessible from inside the campus network. The VPN bridges that gap by creating a secure tunnel between your device and KAUST, making it possible to access internal sites, applications, and file shares from anywhere in the world. It also ensures that all traffic to and from KAUST is encrypted and authenticated, which is especially important when working over public or unsecured networks.

Who can access the VPN

VPN access is automatically granted to the following groups:

Faculty Staff Students Postdoctoral Researchers Researchers Consultants and PTSAs

VPN access is not automatic for everyone

Service Providers, Visiting Students, and Business Visitors do not receive VPN access automatically.

To request access, your KAUST proponent (sponsor) must submit a request on your behalf through the KAUST Connect Account Request Form.

How to connect

Important update

Effective Monday, 29 September 2025, the Cisco AnyConnect client has been replaced with KAUST VPN Secure Client. If you have not yet updated, visit vpn.kaust.edu.sa to connect. On first connection, the new client will automatically install, remove AnyConnect, and configure your device.

Cannot find Cisco AnyConnect? This is expected. It has been replaced by KAUST VPN Secure Client.

Newly issued KAUST laptops and desktops have Cisco Secure Client pre-installed. It is also available in Windows Software Center and macOS Self Service.

Old client

Cisco AnyConnect

Current client

KAUST VPN Secure Client

KAUST uses Cisco Secure Client for VPN connections. It is pre-installed on IT-managed devices, available in Software Center (Windows) and Self Service (macOS), and downloadable for personal devices at vpn.kaust.edu.sa.

Visit vpn.kaust.edu.sa.

Select your VPN group (for example: Students, Faculty-Researcher, Staff).

Approve the connection using DUO two-factor authentication.

Security requirements

VPN access requires two layers of authentication:

Your KAUST login credentials (username and password)

DUO authentication using the mobile app or a one-time 2FA passcode

Complete the DUO setup before your first VPN login.

When to use it

Use VPN for

Internal web portals and KAUST intranet sites

Shared drives and network file shares

Remote desktop sessions

Any resource that requires an on-campus connection

VPN not required for

Microsoft Outlook, Teams, OneDrive, and SharePoint

Most cloud-based services

General internet browsing

Disconnect when not needed to preserve bandwidth.

Setup guides

Complete DUO setup before your first VPN login. A 2FA passcode can be used if the mobile app is unavailable.

How to Set Up DUO Mobile

Setup guide (PDF)

Using a 2FA Passcode

Setup guide (PDF)

Common issues

Problem	Suggested action
VPN does not connect	Check that DUO is working and your internet connection is stable.
Connection keeps dropping	Switch to a more reliable or wired network if possible.
Access is denied	Confirm that your account is approved for VPN access. If you are a Service Provider, Visiting Student, or Business Visitor, VPN access must be requested via your KAUST sponsor through KAUST Connect.
Cannot find Cisco AnyConnect	AnyConnect has been replaced by KAUST VPN Secure Client. Visit vpn.kaust.edu.sa to automatically install the new client.
Linux device setup	Try OpenConnect or manual setup. Limited support is available.

Need help with VPN? Visit our Contact Us page to reach the IT Service Desk.

Access KAUST VPN