Secure — connection (3)
I believe the answer is:
tie
This clue is a double definition.
'secure' is the first definition.
(tying is a kind of securing)
'connection' is the second definition.
(tie is a kind of connection)
(Other definitions for tie that I've seen before include "It's worn under the collar" , "Level result" , "Bind with a cord" , "Dead-heat" , "line above notes" .)