How to install anyconnect on Debian 13

Cisco AnyConnect is one of the most popular VPN clients that provides a secure connection between your system and remote networks. In this guide, you’ll learn how to install Cisco AnyConnect on Debian 13 easily using the terminal.

Step 1: Update Your System

Before installing AnyConnect, make sure your Debian 13 system is up to date. This helps prevent package conflicts during installation.

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

Step 2: Download the Cisco AnyConnect Package

You need to download the AnyConnect VPN package from Cisco’s official website. Access to the Cisco portal may require a valid account or license.

wget https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/dcn/anyconnect-linux64.zip

Step 3: Extract the AnyConnect Package

Once downloaded, extract the contents of the AnyConnect ZIP file to access the installation scripts and VPN client files.

unzip anyconnect-linux64.zip -d anyconnect
cd anyconnect/vpn

Step 4: Install Cisco AnyConnect VPN

Now run the installation script to set up the VPN client on Debian 13. This process installs all necessary components for secure VPN access.

sudo ./vpn_install.sh

Step 5: Launch Cisco AnyConnect

After installation, start Cisco AnyConnect to connect to your VPN server. You can launch it directly from the terminal.

/opt/cisco/anyconnect/bin/vpnui &

Step 6: Enable Automatic Startup

If you use the VPN regularly, you can enable Cisco AnyConnect to start automatically when your system boots up.

sudo systemctl enable vpnagentd.service
sudo systemctl start vpnagentd.service

Step 7: Verify Installation

Finally, check that Cisco AnyConnect is properly installed and working on Debian 13 by verifying its version.

/opt/cisco/anyconnect/bin/vpn version