How to Install Configure VPN on Windows Server

Introduction

In this article, we going to create and configure VPN on windows server 2019 in the proper method and easiest way.

VPN services running on a server fall into two main categories.

1. Server as a VPN Client

In this scenario, the server itself functions as a client to a VPN service provider.

This allows the server to: Connect to a secure network: This can be useful for accessing resources on a remote network, such as a private cloud or another company's internal network.
Bypass geo-restrictions: By connecting to a VPN server in a different location, the server can access services or content that might be restricted based on its geographical location.
Enhance online privacy: The VPN encrypts all traffic going to and from the server, making it more difficult for third parties to monitor its activity.

2. Server as a VPN Server

Here, the server itself acts as a VPN server, allowing other devices to connect to it and access the network it is part of.

This offers functionalities like: Remote access: Employees, partners, or authorized individuals can securely connect to the server's network from any location with an internet connection.
Improved security: Incoming connections are encrypted and filtered, reducing the risk of unauthorized access to the network resources.
Network segmentation: Allows the creation of separate virtual networks within the main network, improving security and resource management.

Common Server-based VPN Solutions

OpenVPN: A popular open-source solution offering flexibility and customization.
SoftEther VPN: Another open-source option with strong encryption and features like load balancing.
Microsoft Routing and Remote Access (RRAS): Built-in option on Windows Server for establishing VPN connections.
Commercial VPN software: Many companies offer commercially licensed VPN solutions with additional features and support.

Step 1. On your main server’s add roles and features, click “remote access” and click “next”.

Select server role

Step 2. Click “next”.

Select features

Step 3. Again, click “next”.

Remote access

Step 4. Select “direct access and VPN”.

Select role service

Step 5. Click “install”.

Confirm installation selections

Step 6. Click “open the getting started wizard”.

Installation prograss

Step 7. Click “deploy VPN only”.

Deploy VPN

Step 8. Right–click on your server’s name and click “configure”.

Configure and Enable Routing and remote access

Step 9. Click “next”.

Welcome

Step 10. Click “custom” after click “next”.

Custom configuration

Step 11. Click “VPN” after click “next”.

Step 12. Click “finish”.

Completing setup

Step 13. Click “start services”.

Start service

Step 14. Right–click on your server’s name and click “properties”.

Properties

Step 15. Select ipv4 click “static” add an IP address without your server range link 192.168.20.200 to 192.168.20.220 after click apply okay.

Static address pool

Step 16. Create a user in the active directory username and computer. If you want to know how to do that, visit my previous article by clicking this link: https://www.c-sharpcorner.com/article/how-to-create-ou-and-users-create-in-server

VPN

Step 17. On your Windows client computer’s network and sharing center, click “set up a new connection or network”.

Change networking setting

Step 18. Click “Connect to the workplace” and click “Next”.

Connect to workplace

Step 19. Click “Use my internet connection”.

Use internet connection

Step 20. Select “internet connection later”.

Setup internet connection later

Step 21. Give your main server’s IP address after click “create”.

Internet address

Step 22. Click “VPN”.

VPN Connection

Step 23. Before login you need to come our created account profile and after click “dial -in” then click “allow access” after click “ok”.

Allow access

Step 24. Now you can login your account using created user name and password, now you can see our VPN has been connected.

VPN Connected

Conclusion

In this article, we all clearly understand how to create and configure a VPN on Windows Server 2019 in the proper method and easiest way. If there is clarification regarding this topic, feel free to contact me.