How to set up VPN connection to the server

We use OpenVPN as a VPN system. There is client software for Windows, OS-X and Linux, and it works very well from behind firewalls, especially from places like China, and hotels with cheap routers.

OpenVPN can only be enabled when our server is set to be the network manager. In most cases we do this when we install the server. We also have to add the users who want to use VPN added to the VPN security group.

Installing the software

On our servers there is a share called NETLOGON. In there is a folder called OPENVPN, and in there are installers (client software) and configuration files for both Windows and OS-X computers. You can also download the software from the OpenVPN web site.

Copying the Config File

Windows

Basic Install

• Version 2.3.X for Windows XP, Vista, 7 and later

Configuration

• Download configuration file from Remote Web Access > Shared Files > Netlogon > OPENVPN > vpn-to-office.ovpn
• Save it on the Desktop
• Then go on Desktop, cut the file
• Paste the vpn-to-office.ovpn into the OpenVPN config folder on your PC usually:
  • C:\Program Files\OpenVPN\config\ for 64bits version
  • or C:\Program Files (x86)\OpenVPN\config\ for 32bits

Connect

• Right-click on the openvpn-gui systray icon (if it does not appears, click on OpenVPN GUI program)
• Click Connect
• The software will prompt you for a username and password. This is the same as you normally use to access the server.

OS X

Basic Install

• Mac OS-X

Configuration

• Download configuration file from Remote Web Access > Shared Files > Netlogon > OPENVPN > vpn-to-office.ovpn
• Save it on the Desktop
• Double click on the configuration file from the Desktop to add it to Tunnelblick (first time only)

Connect

• Right-click on the Tunnelblick systray icon
• Click Connect
• The software will prompt you for a username and password. This is the same as you normally use to access the server.