How to configure a Windows workstation to accept VPN connections

This article describes how to perform a basic configuration in Windows 2000 Workstation or Windows XP to accept Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP) Virtual Private Network (VPN) connections. The process is essentially the same for both Operating Systems.

Windows XP Setup

• Click Start -> Control Panel
• Double-click Network Connections
• Choose Create a New Connection and click Next to proceed past the introduction screen.
• Choose Set up an advanced connection, click Next
• Choose Accept incoming connections and click Next
• Do not select any connection devices, click Next
• Choose Allow virtual private connections, click Next
• Choose which users you want to allow VPN access, click Next
• If you are not using a DHCP server (or DHCP is not provided by your router), you may need to change the network settings by selecting Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and clicking the Properties button. Click Next when finished.
• Click Finish.
• Configure your firewall to accept VPN connections (see below).

Windows 2000 Setup

• Click Start -> Settings -> Network and Dial-Up Connections
• Double-click Make New Connection and click Next to proceed past the introduction screen.
• Choose Accept incoming connections and click Next
• Do not select any connection devices, click Next
• Choose Allow virtual private connections, click Next
• Choose which users you want to allow VPN access, click Next
• If you are not using a DHCP server (or DHCP is not provided by your router), you may need to change the network settings by selecting Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and clicking the Proeprties button. Click Next when finished.
• Name the connection if you feel it necessary and click Finish.
• Configure your firewall to accept VPN connections (see below).

Assuming you have some sort of firewall protection, you will need to allow incoming VPN connections. Open TCP port 1723 on your firewall and forward it to the VPN PC. Your firewall must also support PPTP pass-through (GRE protocol) in order to accept PPTP connections.

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