How to Connect to a Remote Server Using a VPN in Windows 10

A VPN is a virtual private network that allows you to connect to a server or a set of servers located anywhere in the world. Essentially, a VPN creates a safe, private, and secure connection within an otherwise public network.

While a VPN is extremely helpful, especially when traveling, connecting to a remote server using a VPN can be slightly tricky. Thankfully, you can achieve this without using complicated procedures or installing additional software. To that end, we’ve put together a list of all the steps you need to follow in order to connect to a remote server using a VPN in Windows 10.

Step 1: Configure Your VPN On the Remote Server

The first thing you need to do is configure your VPN on the remote server. To achieve this, you’ll need to click the “Connect” button in the Network & Internet settings applet in Windows 10. Once connected, you’ll see a screen similar to the one below.

You shouldn’t have any trouble following the on-screen instructions. Just make sure you use your server’s IP address and not its domain name. Also, make sure you use a VPN protocol that is supported by your hardware and that has a good reputation. For example, PPTP is supported by all kinds of devices and is pretty safe. Once you’ve entered the necessary information, click “OK” to save your VPN configuration.

Step 2: Enable TCP/IPv6 On the Remote Server

Depending on which network adapter you use, your device may not be able to connect to the Internet using IPv6. In that case, you’ll need to enable it on the remote server. To do this, enter the following command in a command prompt:

ipv6 (hit enter)

You should now see output similar to the one below. If you’re still unable to connect, enable IPv6 Troubleshooting as well.

If you use WiFi, make sure the password is correctly entered and that you’re using the correct security type. If you use Ethernet, make sure the DHCP server is enabled and that your router is configured to give out IP addresses automatically (this is usually the case with default settings). If this is not the case, you may need to manually configure your wired connection to give out addresses on the same subnet as your VPN’s IP range (e.g., 10.0.0.0-10.0.0.255) so that your device can successfully connect to the VPN server.

Step 3: Test Your Connection

Now that you have your VPN configured on the remote server, it’s time to test it and make sure that you can successfully connect to it. To do this, enter the following command in a command prompt:

ping & ping6 (hit enter) (hit enter)

You should see output similar to the one below. If you get a positive response, then your VPN connection should work fine. If you get a negative response, then it’s time to troubleshoot.

Also, make sure you close your Network & Internet settings applet once you’ve tested your connection.

Step 4: Configure Your Windows 10 Device to Use The VPN

Now that you’ve confirmed that the VPN connection is working on the remote server, it’s time to configure your Windows 10 device to use the VPN. To do this, open the Network & Internet settings applet in Windows 10 and click the “VPN” option.

You’ll now see a screen similar to the one below. You can either use the manual option –- which is the default –- or choose to connect using a specific VPN server.

If you use the latter option, enter the server’s IP address or domain name (e.g., https://github.com) in the “Connect to a VPN server” box. You can also enter a specific VPN protocol (e.g., PPTP) or choose to leave it to Windows automatically (if your VPN supports this).

Once you’ve entered the necessary information, click “OK” to save your configuration. Congrats! You now have a VPN connection to the remote server.

Step 5: Secure Your Connection

The last and perhaps most important step in connecting to a VPN is securing your connection. To achieve this, you need to enter your VPN username and password when prompted. You’ll also need to ensure that Windows is not putting your computer or device in a “trusted” state whenever you logon to a public Wi-Fi network. To prevent this, open the Start menu and type “trusted” in the search bar. You’ll then see a list of all the apps, programs, and features that can put your device in a trusted state. Uninstall or disable all of them (except Microsoft Windows). This should prevent your device from being put into a trusted state whenever you logon to a public Wi-Fi network. If you logon to a network with a password, then your device will still be in a trusted state because there’s always the chance that someone may try to spy on you.

That’s It

You now have a fully configured VPN connection to a remote server. All you need to do is connect to it whenever you need to access resource on the Internet that require a secure connection (e.g., banks, dating websites, etc.). Remember, however, that all your Internet traffic is still subject to the law. In most cases, you won’t need to secure your connection because your ISP will already be doing this for you.

A VPN is an essential tool for anyone who utilizes the Internet. It allows you to safely access any website you want, without worrying about your privacy. Plus, it helps block annoying ads and gives you the ability to be creative online.