Step-by-Step Guide: How to set up a VPN

Solutions for keeping remote users connected to Exchange Server have traditionally centered around using Outlook Web Access. However, there is no reason why your remote users can't connect to your Exchange organization using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

In case you aren't familiar with VPN technology, a VPN is a logical, secure connection across an insecure network, such as the Internet. Remote users can use their existing Internet connections to securely connect to your network, just as if they were in the office. Better still, VPN technology is Exchange-independent. This means your remote users can use your VPN connection to access Exchange Server regardless of the version, and can also access other network resources.

VPN technology is extremely useful in organizations with a lot of remote users, but it can be somewhat complicated to set up. This guide will walk you step-by-step through the process.

HOW TO SET UP A VPN

 Home: Introduction
 Step 1: Setup requirements
 Step 2: Implement DHCP services
 Step 3: Create an enterprise certificate authority
 Step 4: Install IAS
 Step 5: Configure IAS
 Step 6: Create a remote access policy
 Step 7: Configure the VPN server
 Step 8: Associate the VPN server with the DHCP server
 Step 9: Configure your remote clients
 Step 10: Test the client connection
 Step 11: Alternate VPN configuration options

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Brien M. Posey, MCSE, is a Microsoft MVP for his work with Windows 2000 Server, Exchange Server and IIS. He has served as CIO for a nationwide chain of hospitals and was once in charge of IT security for Fort Knox. For more information visit www.brienposey.com.