VPN (Virtual Private Network) - Virtual private network. VPN can connect computers in different parts of the world into one network through another network, for example, the global Internet. And all traffic transmitted over such a network will be encrypted. This allows you to remotely control another computer from anywhere in the world.
Thanks to VPN, the user can access both the corporate network and a separate computer. To do this, they must be properly configured, and the user himself must have access to such a connection. both on individual client computers and on servers for VPN connections we will look at later. Today we'll go over the topic "How to set up a VPN connection on a client computer." This will mean that it is from this computer that another computer will be conducted.
Configuring a VPN connection in the Windows operating system
In order to create a VPN connection in Windows, you need to sequentially go through the following windows:
- Control panel
- Network and Internet
- Network and Sharing Center
- Create and configure a new connection or network
- Workplace connection
- Use .
I would like to note that to facilitate such surfing through the bowels of the Control Panel will help, which allows you to get to the desired point in one single click. Next, in the window that opens, you need to enter some data, namely:
- VPN server location. You can specify either the full name of the server or it (in IPv4 or IPv6 format).
- Come up with a name for the VPN connection, but this is not necessary at all, the default name will do.
- You can specify the use of a smart card. Not required if the target computer does not use smart cards to sign in.
- You can tell the computer to remember your login credentials.
- Allow other computer users to use this connection. If other users of this computer will also use the VPN connection, check the box.
After setting up, click Next. The created VPN connection can be found in the window Network connections... There you can also create a shortcut for this connection. I mean, many have a shortcut for connecting to the Internet on the desktop. Here is the same topic. The VPN connection is connected in the same way as all other connections.
During this setup, the user does not have access to most of the VPN connection settings. Therefore, after creating a connection, you can enter VPN connection properties and change the parameters you want. But in general, these parameters should not be changed.
What is VPN Reconnect?
VPN Reconnect is a new feature in Windows 7. And as you might guess, this feature belongs to VPN technology. We have already learned what VPN is.
What is VPN Reconnect? VPN Reconnect is a feature that can initiate reconnection to the VPN server when it is disconnected. With traditional VPN connections, if the connection was lost, you had to manually reconnect the connection again. Moreover, any process that took place at this moment will have to be started from the beginning.
But times are changing. The new VPN Reconnect feature allows you to automatically re-initiate a broken connection without re-authorization. All this is possible thanks to the new IKEv2 tunneling protocol with the MOBIKE extension. And since we're talking about protocols, it's worth noting that the rest of the protocols (PPTP, L2TP / IPsec, SSTP), which are also supported in Windows 7, are not compatible with the VPN Reconnect function. And given the fact that the IKEv2 protocol is the most secure of all the protocols listed above, it follows that the use of the new IKEv2 protocol is not only safe, but also convenient.
The IKEv2 protocol with the MOBIKE extension allows you to automatically re-initiate the connection even after 8 hours of disconnection. More precisely, the maximum break time is 8 hours. You can leave the computer for a couple of hours, turn off the Internet, then come in and continue working on the remote computer. Also, this protocol allows VPN clients to change their Internet addresses. So, you can safely move from one place to another, while disconnecting the previous connection and connecting to a new connection to the Internet, but you will still be connected to the VPN. Although in truth, you disconnect from the VPN connection first, VPN Reconnect will return it to you immediately. So you won't notice anything.
I recently introduced readers to a new technology that bypasses VPN technology in several ways. So, one of the advantages of DirectAccess - always-on connection - can be easily compensated by the new VPN function. The main thing here is not to lag behind fashion and use new software: I have already mentioned Windows 7 (by the way, in the article you can find other examples of XP really lagging behind the leading OS), but I forgot about Windows Server 2008 R2. This means that IKEv2 only supports VPN servers running Windows Server 2008 R2 or later.
Well, in the end, I will indicate the place where you can configure the maximum time for disconnecting the connection. To do this, you need to go to Network connections, find the created VPN connection there and go to it Properties a. Next, on the tab Security find and poke button Extra options... In the opened window Additional properties go to tab IKEv2, check the box Mobility and indicate the maximum break time. This is how the VPN Reconnect function is configured.
Virtual Private Network, aka VPN, aka virtual private network. In fact, in a sense, such networks should be viewed as a step back, however, a forced and extremely effective step. VPNs allow you to go back from global networks to local networks, albeit on a rather unusual scale.
VPN, on the other hand, allows you to combine computers scattered around the world into virtual local area networks, while you can interact with other members of the network as if everyone is connected to the same router - play on a local network, open shared folders through Network Neighborhood, and print on "Shared" printers. So, we suggest you learn how to create VPN-networks, connect to them, and also solve some problems that may arise (although not necessarily) during their use. Despite the fact that the general principle always remains the same, we will talk about how to set up a VPN on Windows 7.
Server creation
Let's start creating a VPN server - a computer to which other users of our virtual network will connect. First of all, we need to get into the Network and Sharing Center. To do this, follow these steps: Start button; "Control Panel"; Network and Sharing Center.
If in the upper right corner you see the inscription "Category", you need to click on it and switch the mode to "Large icons" - this display mode is used in our instructions.
As a result, you should see something like this:
The window displayed on your screen allows you to control almost any aspect of your computer's networking. Here you need to click on the "Change adapter settings" icon.
To start creating an inbound connection, follow these steps:
Now you have this window on your screen, with a few minor exceptions.
Firstly, in the list of accounts there may be other items, and also, you are unlikely to have the use of "vpnuser", which we will create with you now by clicking on the "Add user" button.
Fill in the indicated fields:"User" - the client's login is indicated here; "Password" and "Confirmation" - the password of the created account (the values must be the same); the "Full name" field is optional - it can be left blank, since it does not affect functionality.
After filling in the fields, click on the "OK" button. If you want to add a few more VPN users (this can be useful for further control over them) repeat the procedure as many times as necessary. When finished with the creation, click "Next". In the next window, put a check mark in the "Via the Internet" field, otherwise the "Next" button will be unavailable. Accordingly, after the checkbox, click on the button and get the following window:
It remains to configure the protocols. Regarding their choice, it is better to leave everything as it is. However, if you plan to use applications that need IPv6 support, you can check the box next to this protocol, however, in 99% of cases this is not necessary.
It is imperative to configure IPv4 correctly:
Everything is necessary in order to be able to find connected users in the future. In addition, this way you can limit the maximum number of people who can connect, which is very useful. When done, click "OK" and then the "Allow Access" button. The VPN server has been created. It remains only to click on the "Close" button and start configuring clients. Also take a look at the chapter "Port Forwarding" - it can be useful.
PC connection
Let's start configuring client computers. First of all, you need to find out the server address, if you connect to a "homemade" VPN server, for this you need to go from it (from the server), for example, to the site myip.ru, which will clearly and clearly display your IP address. In the future, we recommend using services in the spirit of DynDns - so as not to waste time looking for an address.
So, to establish a VPN connection, we do the following:
This click will launch a short connection wizard, in the first step of which you need to select "Connect to a workplace" and click "Next".
Now we select the first item from the list. You don't even need to think about the second one in the 21st century - it is needed for DialUp modems.
If you did everything correctly, it's time to drive in the server address. This can be either the IP address that we looked at on the server, or the domain name that can be obtained through dynamic DNS services.
In our case, the address is specified as 157.57.121.54, however, in your case the numbers will probably be different. The field "Destination name" can be filled in at your own discretion - it will not affect the operation of the network. Also, it is worth putting a tick in the "Do not connect now" item so as not to waste time in the setup process.
As soon as the necessary data is specified, click "Next" and proceed to filling in the fields:
- "Username" - here you enter the login specified when creating the VPN server;
- "Password" - similarly - the password of the VPN user is specified in advance;
- optionally you can check the "Remember password" checkbox.
It remains to click on the "Create" button and your VPN connection is ready. If the server is running, and you are sure of the correctness of your actions, you can connect now using the "Connect now" button. In addition, you can always establish a connection using the network icon in the lower right corner.
That's all. If everything is done correctly, then you can start using your virtual network, however, we recommend that you read this article to the end - even if everything is working fine now, there is a risk that problems will appear sooner or later and it is better to be prepared for them.
VPN server in Windows 7
First of all, it should be noted that the built-in VPN server in the G7 has one important and extremely unpleasant limitation - only one person can connect to your server at a time. If you want more, install Windows Server, however, you can find a fairly effective patch on the network that removes this annoying limitation - after applying it, several connections will become available. In addition, sometimes for a full-fledged configuration, you need to configure the firewall and forward ports - we will tell you about this now.
Video: Create a Connection
Configuring firewalls
In some cases, the connection is established, but there is no connection between the computers. It's all about the built-in firewall (or firewall) of Windows.
To make it more user-friendly, you need to indicate that you trust the connected users.
We establish a connection, go to the "Network Control Center" and look for the connection icon. It is called "RAS" on the client and "VPN Connection" on the server.
We click on them on both machines and select "Home network".
That's all, your problems should disappear on this.
Port forwarding
Another snag is that home routers and ADSL modems do not open the ports required for VPN by default. In this case, you will have to do it manually.
You will have to open ports on the server, or rather, on the router to which it is connected - how this is done is described in detail in the instructions for your device, but we will only inform you that the Windows VPN server uses TCP port 1723. Also, if available such a function, disable the GRE lock.
Setting parameters
Even when the VPN server is already configured, you can change its parameters. To do this, open the "Change adapter settings" window, which we used in the first part of the article, then right-click on the "Inbound connections" icon and select "Properties".
A window will appear on your screen where you can edit, delete, and add users, as well as configure protocol settings and IP ranges. In other words, change the parameters that you specified when creating the connection.
Attention! This function only works fully if the connection is idle - if someone is connected to you, disconnect it before changing the parameters.
Error 807
A network error about an interrupted connection with the number 807 is a real scourge for novice admins. To get rid of it (or, at least, to find out the cause of its occurrence), you need to do several steps:
As an additional measure, try setting everything up again.
Enabling debug logs
Sometimes, to get more information, you need to write all server events to an easy-to-read file. To start this process, press Win + R and in the window that opens, enter: netsh ras set tracing * enabled.
Press Enter and go to the Windowstracing directory, there you will find several files (5 pieces), which contain detailed information about connection attempts and transmitted data. They can be opened with any text editor. Disabling the recording is done by a similar command, however, the word enabled must be replaced with disabled. VPN is a great solution for a variety of cases. However, it gained the greatest popularity in the corporate environment. Let's say you are on a business trip with your laptop, but you want to use it as if you were in the office. Then a VPN is exactly what you need.
In addition, such a solution is often used for remote access to printers - despite the fact that there are many modern protocols, such a solution is still simple and convenient.
And, of course, we must not forget about games - a VPN network greatly simplifies the launch of gaming programs designed to work on a local network. Naturally, this is not a complete list of possible VPN uses. The functions of this service can be useful to everyone, so keep this manual ready.
>A VPN service improves the privacy of users on the Internet by improving the security of connections, which is especially important for insecure public networks. In addition, a VPN makes it difficult for online trackers to track user activity and allows them to visit sites for which regional restrictions have been introduced.
Requirements: Opera 40 or higher web browser. Make sure you disable other proxy services before using VPN in Opera.
- In the browser, press Alt + P or go to Opera menu> Settings.
- Choose a section Extras> Security Enable VPN.
The option "Bypass VPN on search engines by default" will be enabled by default. You can turn it off if you want to use VPN also in Google, Yandex, etc. search engines.
- VPN.
How to set up a VPN connection for Opera on MacOS
- In a browser, press Command +, or go to Opera menu> Settings.
- Choose a section Extras> Security and in the VPN section make the switch active Enable VPN.
- The button should appear in the address bar of the browser VPN.
- Click on the icon to select a server location or view the amount of data used. When the VPN is active, the button will be blue.
Choosing a VPN server location
Opera 55 supports locations divided into regions: Europe, Asia and the United States. You can use Optimal Location mode to select the optimal server for performance.
Found a typo? Highlight and press Ctrl + Enter
Virtual Private Networks are private remote networks, encrypted in special ways, with foreign servers. They provide high speed connection. They are used by internet surfers to log in and visit blocked sites anonymously. Let's look at how to set up a VPN on Windows through different programs. There is such a possibility, even if it is not officially supported by the provider.
What is VPN?
To configure it correctly, you need to understand the features and principles of the service. A VPN connection is a local area network that connects multiple computers. The principle of operation is based on a router that provides IP to all connected PCs.
So, it becomes almost impossible to determine the IP from which the user goes online, and it turns out to bypass most blocking programs. This is due to encrypted traffic packets, the keys for which are only available to the server, from where requests are sent in the specified directions.
How to use on different Windows OS?
First you need to connect to the VPN server. This can be a home or remote PC. Providers supporting such a service issue logins and passwords to their subscribers. In this case, the setup process is extremely simple. It is enough to fill in a few cells with the correct information.
Windows 7
This version is the most common. The question of how to set up a VPN on Windows 7 is of interest to many. This is done through the control panel:
- Above, change the images to "large icons".
- Find "Network Control Center" - "New Connection Settings" - "Workplace Connection".
- Two methods are offered - through direct dialing or the global network. We need the latter - it will allow you to learn more about VPN.
- Server data required. The myip site will help to determine the IP. Specify any location - network performance does not depend on this information.
- Write down the login and password provided by the provider. When using your own server, the information is set independently. Then you need to put "remember the password", save.
Detailed and step-by-step video instruction!
The connection will now appear among the available ones. If there are several accounts on the computer, you will need additional adjustment through the control center. On the left, you need to select "change adapter parameters" to display a list of all available connections. Click "file" then "new incoming connection".
If there are several accounts, the system will offer to select a user. Once done, click "add". Then you need a login, a name (any name will do), a password, confirm the actions.
Now it remains:
- Choose a connection option - via the Internet.
- Configure protocol - ТСР \ IP
- Click "properties", allow access to callers, set the IP. If this is not done automatically, write down the random output 192.168.200.1 to 192.168.200.100.
- Confirm the action, click "allow access".
These are the main steps of the procedure, which can be guided by other versions of the OS.
The process is very simple and is carried out through the control panel. After clicking the "Connection Wizard", select your virtual private network and follow the instructions. If your provider works with VPN, the name must correspond to the fixed contract. Name your network home, work, like a PC.
Windows 8
Version 8 is automated, so the instructions on how to set up a VPN on Windows 8 are simple:
- At the bottom, find the corresponding icon that looks like a monitor.
- Find "network control center" - "create and configure a connection" where the network settings are changed.
- Confirm the direct connection of the PC to the Internet.
- Specify the name of the working environment by changing the options. The values entered are the same as for other OS versions.
The process completed successfully.
For those who find it difficult, watch the video tutorial.
Windows 10
Here the procedure is different. It combines autotuning with user-specified parameters. It is enough to know the login, password, server address. The tenth version ensures the stable operation of this service through providers that do not work with VPN. You need to download the appropriate program. It will be accepted and adapted by the OS.
Further actions:
- Start - parameters - network and internet. Select VPN from the list that appears on the left.
- Click + to add a new connection. Enter the parameters in the window that appears. They will be provided by the administrator or provider. Specify the supplier, VPN type, login information.
- Save changes, return to the network management menu, click "change parameters". Select connection properties by pressing the right mouse button.
- Select the line IP version 4, then properties.
- Leave the general settings as default, click "advanced". Remove the "use default gateway" market. Please confirm.
A special icon will appear on the panel. Activation takes a few seconds, it takes place without entering a username-password.
Windows Vista
How to set up a VPN on Windows Vista? Through the start, enter the "Network and Sharing Center", then "Establish a connection or network." Further interests "connect to the workplace" - "use my connection". They will offer to install or postpone. Click the second option. Write down your login information.
To select a VPN, it remains to enter the network connection management. You can also create a shortcut there.
VPN services
Many providers do not provide such a service, striving to control the location of subscribers and save the transmitted information. Therefore, utilities that make it possible to use a VPN service based on an existing connection are very popular. They involve changing the IP address with the transfer of data over an encrypted channel. Such services help to successfully bypass blockages by providing access to closed services. The utility can be installed on any OS, PC or smartphone.
There are many programs, among which it is worth highlighting a few recognized as the best:
- ZenMate;
- ZenVPN;
- Spotflux.
ZenMate is a handy extension for Chrome, Opera, Firefox browsers. This is a convenient service that is provided free of charge or for a fee. The speed depends on the selected service package. Expansion pleases:
- stable connection;
- long test period;
- a wide range of countries;
- auto-tuning of parameters with the possibility of manual adjustment;
- using one subscription for different devices.
Hide.Me is the preferred option for advanced internet users. It can be fine-tuned manually. There is limited and unlimited traffic. When choosing unlim, 5 simultaneous connections are allocated - this solution will be appreciated by companies. This software is convenient:
- emergency disconnect option;
- free mode;
- enhanced support for encryption protocols.
Newbies will love Hotspot Shield. It is a highly customizable option that installs and downloads automatically. It maintains a stable, long-term connection, blocks ads for free. Encryption is offered via the HTTPS protocol, so the protection of personal data is ensured. Bypasses all restrictions set by the provider.
ZenVPN is perfect for those who prefer privacy when using the Internet. This utility is relatively free - only 250 MB per day is provided, if you need more, you will have to buy a special package.
Spotflux offers a secure internet connection. By choosing this software, you don't have to worry about security even while using Wi-Fi. An additional plus is the compression of packet traffic, which allows you to save it if there are limits.
In addition to a powerful computer and an impressive list of additional programs for easy surfing and safe work on the Internet, you need a reliable server - a tool that provides communication with people, services, companies and information sites. Among the different types, the best choice would be a VPN server, if only because it is included in the Windows operating system as an option. Read on and you will be able to run and configure it on Windows 7 on your own and at no cost.
Connecting and configuring a VPN server
Don't be alarmed. It is not difficult to create and prepare a VPN server for correct operation, but a prerequisite is that you have administrator rights.
What is a VPN Server
Literally VPN (Virtual Private Network) translates as "virtual private network". Technically, it is a set of protocols and solution architecture that provides secure communication in a digital environment. Essentially, a VPN is a secure add-on on top of a familiar virtual network.
Installing and configuring a VPN server does not take much of your time, since it is already built into the Windows operating system. According to experts, the most successful private server configuration is contained on this platform.
This is what a simplified VPN server connection scheme looks like.
The server's job is to create tunnels that connect the user to the end "points" where he wants to go. Moreover, the information is encrypted using a complex algorithm, which is almost impossible to decode. No one from the outside can get inside the tunnel. The server blocks such attempts, leaving personal information well protected - correspondence, calls, messages, video and audio files.
What is it for
The essence of the answer lies in the tasks that the server performs. It not only unites many devices in the virtual space, such as computer terminals, laptops, tablets and even mobile devices. Its technology provides anonymity, data encryption and protection of confidential information from interception by hackers.
Some will argue: we have no need for anonymity and data protection, because there is nothing to hide. Let me not believe you. Not only cybercriminals use encrypted traffic, most are not averse to protecting their data in order not to "share" passwords to access their bank card or to become an object of blackmail due to leakage of personal information. As the saying goes: it is stupid to leave the door of the house open if the world does not consist of only good and kind people. Anonymity also adds a nice detail - the ability to visit resources that were previously unavailable for various reasons.
One of the most common reasons for using VPN is unwillingness to be tied to the workplace.
It's also a good idea to mention the benefits of using a VPN:
- scalability - no additional costs are required when connecting another participant;
- flexibility - it doesn't matter where you get access from;
- a valuable opportunity to work anywhere.
A VPN server is also extremely necessary when creating corporate networks, when for the safe operation of a company or enterprise it is necessary to restrict access of unauthorized persons to information circulating among employees. Using VPN technical solutions, it is not difficult to manage the privacy of clients outside the firm.
How to create and configure on a Windows 7 computer: step-by-step instructions
The sequence of steps that you need to follow to start and configure the VPN server on the Windows 7 platform is as follows.
- Open the Start menu and go to the Control Panel tab.
Go from Start Menu to Control Panel - In "Computer Settings" select "Network and Internet".
Open the "Network and Internet" section - In the window that opens, click "Network and Sharing Center".
Select "Network and Sharing Center" - Then click "Set up a new connection or network".
Select "Set up a new connection or network" - Select "Connect to a workplace" in the new window.
Press the button "Connect to the workplace" - Then click on "Use my internet connection (VPN)".
Select "Use my Internet connection (VPN)" - When prompted to establish an Internet connection immediately or postpone this action, select “Postpone setting up an Internet connection”.
Select "Postpone Internet Connection Setup" - Next, write down the server address, destination name and name for the connection.
Enter the address of the VPN server, in the field "Destination name" write the name of the connection - In the next window, enter the login and password that are registered on the VPN server. In the “Remember this password” field, check the box so as not to enter it every time you connect. Be sure to save.
Enter the login and password registered on the VPN server. Check the box "Remember this password" - The connection has been created. Click the Close button. For convenience, create a shortcut to the program on the Desktop.
Close a window - Go back to the "Start" menu, then to "Control Panel", "Network and Internet", "Network and Sharing Management", where select "Change adapter settings".
Go to the item "Changing adapter parameters" - Find the VPN connection in this window and right-click on it, then go to its "Properties".
In the VPN connection window, right-click on it and go to its "Properties" - Next, select the "Security" item, where in the "VPN Type" field select "Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP)", and in the "Data encryption" field, click on the "Optional" item.
Open "Security" and in the "Type of VPN" field select "Point-to-point tunneling protocol (PPTP)", in the "Data encryption" field select "optional" - In the same window, only on the "Network" tab, uncheck the boxes next to the "Client for Microsoft networks" and "Service of access to files and printers for Microsoft networks".
On the "Network" tab, uncheck the boxes next to the items: "Client for Microsoft networks" and "Service of access to files and printers of Microsoft networks" - Then, without closing the window, go to the "Settings" tab and uncheck the box next to the item "Enable Windows logon domain", and then click "OK".
On the "Options" tab, uncheck the box next to the "Enable Windows logon domain" item, then click "OK"
Before starting the VPN, it will ask for a location. The best choice is "Public Place", then the greatest privacy in the digital space will be ensured. If desired, in the "Connection" menu, configure the settings for encryption and the use of other devices.
The installation process is quite simple, except that you will need to temporarily disable the antivirus. When the program is loaded, the virtual network adapter TAP-Win32 Adapter V9 and the driver for it are entered into the system. The task of OpenVPN is to set the IP address and mask of the local add-on.
First of all, you need to copy the configuration file that the provider should provide you with. Save the data in the C: \ Program Files \ OpenVPN \ config folder. While in it, click on the "Insert" item.
