How to Integrate an iPad With a Work Server

Depending on the network, bringing an iPad into the workplace may require some server configuration before it can be used. Most work environments can accommodate an iPad through a wireless network. If the network uses an authentication server to access wireless, this should be configured first. Most offices today use Microsoft Exchange Server for email, which can be used with an iPad or iPhone. The iPad is also compatible with most Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) used in work environments today.

Instructions

Wireless Settings

1. Compare the wireless authentication protocols supported by the iPad with those supported with the server’s network. The iPad supports most Extensible Authentication Protocols (EAP) used in enterprise wireless systems.

2. Ensure 802.1X is enabled on the authentication server if you use one. Install a server certificate if needed. Configure network access permissions for the user or group of users who have iPads.

3. Ensure certificate-based authentication and public key infrastructure (PKI) is configured to support both device-based and user-based certificates. The iPad supports PKCS#1 and PCKS#12 certificate formats.

4. Access the wireless network by bringing the iPad within range of the wireless signal. Tap “Settings” on the iPad, then “Wi-Fi.” Turn “Wi-Fi” to the “On” position, then select the network from the list provided.

5. Test the 802.1X deployment on a laptop computer to ensure it is working properly if the iPad fails to connect.

Exchange Server

1. Check the Exchange Server configuration to see if Exchange ActiveSync has been enabled. If it has, no further changes should be needed to connect the iPad to the Exchange Server.

2. Configure the Exchange Management Console to allow mobile devices.

3. Ensure port 443 is open on the firewall. If the Exchange Server uses Outlook Web Access, this port should already be open.

4. Verify that a server certificate is installed on the front-end server. Enable SSL for the Exchange ActiveSync virtual directory in IIS.

5. Ensure the Domain Name Service (DNS) is configured to return a single externally routable address to the Exchange Server for Internet and intranet clients.

6. Configure the Microsoft Internet Security and Acceleration (ISA) Server to with a Web listener and an Exchange Web client access publishing rule. You should also verify an ISA Server certificate is installed.

7. Configure the iPad for Exchange by tapping “Settings,” then “Mail, Contacts, Calendars.” Tap “Add Account,” the tap “Microsoft Exchange.”

Virtual Private Networks

1. Compare your organization’s VPN network to those accessible by the iPad. The iPad can be used with most VPN networks including Cisco IPSec, L2TP/IPSec and PPTP protocols.

2. Compare the authentication methods supported by your VPN with those the iPad can use. These include Password authentication, RSA SecurID, CRYTOCard, X.509 and Shared Secret.

3. Ensure your server’s PKI is configured for both device-based and user-based certificates.

4. Access VPN settings on the iPad by tapping “Settings,” then “General” and then “Network.” Tap “VPN.” From this screen you can turn VPN on or off, or add a new VPN configuration to the iPad.

Tips & Warnings

• Before configuring a server or network for an iPad or any other device, make sure that all software, firmware and security patches are up-to-date and working properly.

References

• PCWorld: Connecting Your iPhone or iPad with Your Business
• Apple: iPad in Business Deployment Scenarios and Device Configuration Overview (PDF)