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”.

Step 2. Click “next”.

Step 3. Again, click “next”.

Step 4. Select “direct access and VPN”.

Step 5. Click “install”.

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

Step 7. Click “deploy VPN only”.

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

Step 9. Click “next”.

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

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

Step 12. Click “finish”.

Step 13. Click “start services”.

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

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

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

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

Step 19. Click “Use my internet connection”.

Step 20. Select “internet connection later”.

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

Step 22. Click “VPN”.

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

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