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Configure Connection

Skyward SMS 2.0 guide

Connect NIM to Skyward SMS 2.0 through the Progress OpenEdge driver, with optional VPN automation where needed.

Before you begin​

This integration uses a database connection through Progress OpenEdge Driver 11.7 or later. Review the vendor's Skyward ODBC Launch Kit before configuring the connection.

Use a client VPN when required​

Prefer a site-to-site VPN

When a VPN is required to reach the database, use a site-to-site VPN where possible. It is more reliable for an unattended NIM service than an interactive client VPN.

The following Cisco AnyConnect example opens the VPN before NIM connects to the database.

  1. Create a connection file, such as C:\Tools4ever\Scripts\connect.txt.

    connect.txt
    connect vpn-1.iscorp.com idofgroup thisismyusername thisismypassword
    y
    quit
    Do not store passwords in plain text

    The example above illustrates the required VPN command structure only. Do not place a real password in connect.txt. Use an approved secure credential method for the account running the NIM service.

  2. Create C:\Tools4ever\Scripts\OpenVPN.bat to close existing AnyConnect processes and open the VPN.

    OpenVPN.bat
    @echo off
    cd /d C:\Tools4ever\Scripts
    taskkill /S localhost /IM vpncli.exe /F /T
    taskkill /S localhost /IM vpnui.exe /F /T
    "C:\Program Files (x86)\Cisco\Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client\vpncli.exe" -s < connect.txt

  3. Create C:\Tools4ever\Scripts\CloseVPN.bat to disconnect when the connection is no longer required.

    CloseVPN.bat
    @echo off
    "C:\Program Files (x86)\Cisco\Cisco AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client\vpncli.exe" disconnect

  4. Configure NIM to run the opening script before its database connection is used, then test the connection from the NIM server.