Installation and Configuration of VPN on Windows Server

I'm Harmanjot, and I bring a wealth of expertise in computer networking, having graduated from Canadore College in Computer Systems Networking. I'm here to lead you through the process of installing and configuring a VPN on a Windows Server

Prerequisites:

To ensure a successful setup, you'll need the following components:

- Server: A Windows Server machine that will serve as the host for the VPN service.

- Client: A device (e.g., laptop) that will connect to the VPN once configured.

- VMWare (Optional): If necessary, ensure VMWare or an appropriate virtualization platform is set up on the server for virtual machine deployment.

- Stable Internet Connection: A reliable, high-speed internet connection is essential for VPN functionality on both the server and client ends.

- Administrative Device: A laptop or desktop computer for managing and configuring the server.

Installation Procedure:

Let's proceed with the installation:

1. Power on the virtual machine hosting the server and access the Server Manager.

2. Click on "Manage" and choose "Add Roles and Features" from the upper-right corner.

3. On the "Before you begin" page, click "Next."

4. Select "Role-based" as the installation type.

5. Choose your server and click "Next."

6. On the "Server roles" page, opt for "Remote Access" and click "Next."

7. Proceed by clicking "Next" on the "Features" tab.

8. Review the description on the "Remote Access" page and click "Next."

9. On the "Role services" page, select "Direct Access" and VPN, then click "Add Features."

10. Confirm your installation selections and click "Install."

11. Upon completion of the installation, click "Close."

Configuration:

Now, let's configure the VPN:

1. Open the "Getting Started Wizard."

2. Select "Deploy VPN only."

3. This will initiate the Routing and Remote Access configuration.

Additional Configuration Steps:

For additional setup:

1. Access your server and right-click on it.

2. Select "Configure and Enable Routing and Remote Access."

3. Opt for "Custom Configuration" from the available choices.

4. Choose "VPN Access" as the preferred option.

5. Click "Finish," and you will be prompted to start the Routing and Remote Access service.

6. Navigate to the server properties where various options will be available.

7. Under properties, select "IPv4."

8. Assign a static IP address for client connections.

9. Specify the start and end IP addresses for the user network and click "OK."

10. Apply the configuration.

Client Setup:

Moving to the client's side:

1. Open the Network and Sharing Center.

2. Select "Set up a new connection or network."

3. Opt for "Dial-up or VPN connection."

4. Choose "Use my internet connection (VPN)."

5. Enter the internet address for the VPN connection and provide a suitable name, then click "Create."

6. Adjust network adapter options.

7. Access VPN properties and open IPv4 properties.

8. De-Select the default gateway on the remote network.

9. Attempt to connect to the VPN. If issues persist, consider checking the domain controller.

10. Access "Tools" and select "Active Directory Users and Computers."

11. Create a user account for the client with a username and password.

12. Configure network settings to grant the user access.

You should now be able to connect to the VPN successfully.