Update

Windows update broke Cisco AnyConnect Mobility VPN Client

This morning Windows prompted me to reboot to apply updates. After I did that, the Cisco VPN client started reporting “Failed to initialize connection subsystem.” When I looked up, I found this article – Microsoft’s SSL 3.0 Poodle-busting patch KB 3023607 breaks popular Cisco VPN client

I followed the compatibility route suggested as a workaround in that post, and it fixed the problem for me:

  1. I closed the Cisco AnyConnect Window and the taskbar icon
  2. Right-clicked vpnui.exe in the Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client folder. (I have it in C:\Program Files (x86)\Cisco\Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client\.)
  3. Clicked the Troubleshoot Compatibility option
  4. Chose Try Recommended Settings.
  5. The wizard suggested Windows 7 compatibility.
  6. Clicked Test Program. This will opened the program. I entered the credentials and connected.
  7. Closed the dialog.

Look Ma, No Computer!

I have an Atrix 4G phone, which came with Android 2.2. I had been waiting for the Gingerbread (2.3) upgrade. When I learned about the upgrade availability from Motorola, the procedure appeared a bit elaborate, and required an SD card to be present in the phone. A file needed to be downloaded and then copied to the SD card for performing the upgrade. I checked various forums, and discovered that the update was also available from AT&T. Best of all, it could be performed directly from the phone using data or Wi-Fi. Just go to Settings > About Phone > System Update.

I tried the AT&T path and the upgrade was simple and smooth over Wi-Fi. All my data and settings (that I have checked so far) are intact and I love the new experience. I struggle to recall any upgrades that have been easier.