Ubuntu VPN revisited

Previously I posted how to install and configure the Cisco VPN client on linux. However an easier method exists also benefitting from being integrated into the network-manager. What you do is

1. Install the vpnc (cisco compatible vpn client) and the network-manager interface/plugin for vpnc: sudo apt-get install vpnc network-manager-vpnc
2. In System->Preferences->Network Connections choose the VPN tab
3. In order to import connection settings from a Cisco VPN *.pcf file click the “import” button and localize your pcf-file. Otherwise fill in your connection settings manually by pressing the “Add” button.
4. Before being able to connect through VPN I have experienced that a reboot is necessary. I don’t know the exact reason for this. There may be other issues preventing the VPN connection from working properly – see the bug report
5. After reboot pres the network-manager icon, by choosing VPN connections, your newly created connection should be there. Click connect and after a while you should be connected.
   
6. If something fails it is always possible to connect manually. Edit /etc/vpnc/example.conf to reflect your connection settings and save it with a different name e.g. MYVPN. Connect by executing vpnc-connect MYVPN in a terminal.