How to Set Up Virtual Networks

Virtual networks -- also known as Virtual Private Networks or VPNs -- are a means of creating a secure connection to a home or office network from another location. There are two types of virtual networks: User-to-network connections allow a single user to connect to a remote network, while network-to-network connections allow two complete networks to connect. Regardless of the type of connection being created, the procedure for setting up the VPN is the same.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• IP address of the host computer/server

On the Host or "Local" Computer

1. Call up the "Network Places" or "My Network Places" window. (The name may differ slightly depending on the operating system that you are using.) This can be done either from the folder tree in Windows Explorer, or by locating the icon on the Desktop or in the Start Menu.

2. Right-click the "Network Places" icon and select "Create a New Connection" from the context menu. Choose the option to set up an advanced connection, then click "Next."

3. Select the "Accept Incoming Connections" option, then click "Next" again. You will then be given the option to select other devices that will be allowed to accept the incoming connection; select them and click the "Next" button.

4. Choose the "Allow Virtual Private Connections" option and click "Next." You will then be asked to choose the users that will be allowed to connect via VPN. Click "Next."

5. Select any protocols or additional networking software that will be used as a part of the virtual network connection. Click "Next" to review the settings, then click "Next" again to accept them. Click the "Finish" button to finalize the setup of the new virtual private network on the host computer.

Setting Up and Connecting from a Remote Computer

6. Locate the "Network Connections" or "My Network Connections" icon in Windows Explorer, on the Desktop or in the Start Menu as you would on the host computer. Right-click on the icon and select "Create a New Network Connection."

7. Choose the "Connect to a Network at my Workplace" option in the Network Connection Setup Wizard. Click the "Next" button.

8. Select the "Virtual Private Network" option, then click "Next." Enter the name of the virtual network that was created on the host computer or server, then click "Next" again.

9. Select the "Do Not Dial the Initial Connection" option, then click "Next." Enter the IP address of the VPN host, then click "Next."

10. Choose the "My Use Only" option to ensure that you are the only one from the remote computer who is able to access the virtual network. Click "Next," then select the option to create a Desktop shortcut for easy access. Click "Finish." You can connect to the VPN by double-clicking the shortcut icon and logging in as you would normally if you were able to directly access the host network.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to close a virtual network connection before leaving the remote computer to prevent unauthorized individuals from accessing your secure network.

References

• OReilly.com: Setting Up a Virtual Private Network
• Microsoft TechNet: Setting Up Virtual Networks
• Mombu.com: Setting Up Virtual Network