How to Set Up a VPN for Windows Server in 2024

The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and with it comes new challenges for network security. Businesses that rely on Windows Server understand the pivotal role of enhancing the protection and accessibility of their data and operations, which is why they turn to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).

By setting up a VPN for Windows Server, you are not only bolstering your defence against potential cyber attacks, but also providing your team with the flexibility to tap into the company’s resources, no matter where they might be. Find out how to get a VPN up and running on your Windows Server below:

How to Install a VPN for Windows Server via App

Setting up our client is the easiest way to use a VPN with Windows Server. Just follow these steps mentioned below:

1. Subscribe to PureVPN.

2. Download and install our Windows client.

3. Launch it and select Dedicated IP as your preferred purpose.

    4. Connect with your dedicated IP and you are good to go!

Note: A dedicated IP ensures that the address of your Windows server does not change. This can be especially crucial if you are providing remote access to a large number of users or important clients.

How to Install a VPN for Windows Server via Manual Configuration

If you want to manually configure a VPN for Windows Server, the process will differ slightly depending on the protocol you choose:

IKEv2

1. Right click the Network icon in the lower right corner of the screen and select Network and Internet Settings.

2. Choose VPN from the list of options, and click Add VPN.

3. Now, insert the following information:

• Choose Windows (built-in) from the VPN Provider drop-down menu.
• In the Connection name box, use a suitable name that you will recognize. For example, PureVPN US.
• Type your desired server address in Server name or address. Check out our complete list of servers here. 
• Select IKEv2 as the VPN Type. 
• Choose User name and password from the Type of sign-in info drop-down menu.

• Enter your PureVPN account details in the User name and Password fields. Learn how to find your credentials here.
• Check the Remember my sign-in info box and click Save.

4. Hit the Connect button next to the VPN connection you created.

5. You have successfully connected to PureVPN!

OpenVPN

1. Donload and extract the OpenVPN installer and configuration files on your desktop. 

2. Now, right click the OpenVPN installer and choose Properties.

3. Click the General tab and check the Unblock box. Hit the OK button once done.

4. Right click the OpenVPN installer and choose Run as administrator. 

5. Click Next > I Agree > Next > Install. 

6. Check the Always trust software from GZ Systems Limited box and click Install.

7. After the installation completes, click Next.

8. Uncheck the Show Readme box and click Finish.

9. Right click OpenVPN GUI and choose Run as administrator. 

10. Go to System Tray and right click OpenVPN GUI. Choose your desired server and hit Connect.

11. You will be prompted to enter your PureVPN credentials. Learn how to find them here. Click OK when done.

12. You have successfully connected to PureVPN!

How to Allow Remote Desktop Connection on Windows Server

Now that you’ve installed a VPN on your Windows Server machine, you’d want to allow remote access so that its resources can be accessed from anywhere:

1. Right click the This PC icon and select Properties.
2. Click Remote Settings from the left side of the window.
3. Once the System Properties screen opens up, click Allow connections from computers running any version of Remote Desktop.
4. Now, click Select Users.
5. In the Remote Desktop Users window, click the Add button to add your desired user.
6. In the Select Users window, type in the username and click the Ok
7. You’ve successfully added a user that can access your Windows Server remotely.

How to Access Windows Server Remotely

Once you’ve allowed remote desktop connection on your Windows Server machine, follow these steps to access it remotely: (use one of our dedicated IPs for seamless access):

1. Type Remote Desktop Connection in the search box.
2. A new window will appear where you’ll be asked to enter the name or IP address of the computer you want to remotely connect to.
3. Once done, hit the Connect
4. In the Windows Security window, enter the Username and Password of your Windows Server machine.
5. Click Ok.
6. Click Yes to rid yourself of the certificate error.
7. You’ve successfully accessed the Windows Server remotely!

Note: If you don’t want to encounter any issues when remotely accessing your Windows Server machine, you’ll need to use one of our dedicated IPs.

Wrapping Things Up

And that’s about it. We’ve not only covered the steps to set up a VPN for Windows Server, but also discussed how to access it from a remote location.

If you have any questions, feel free to use the comments section below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.