In windows server 2003 how do i configure it so i can log in from the internet?

Question

Hello, I wanted to get connected to my windows server 2003 from my laptop. But it only works when im in the same building. But as soon as i connect from another building it does not work. Someone told me that i need to set up a virtual private network? is this true? If it is, how do i do it?

Answer 1

This question is not something I can simply tell you on what to do in few brief sentences.

But I can tell you this much. If you make it available from outside of your private network - behind your firewall, it will also make it available for everybody. Windows series of OS not being particularly secure, you open yourself up to all sorts of malicious intents.

Basically, what you do is, at your firewall, you setup a vpn listener that will authenticate and listen to connections. Once someone is authenticated, it is the same thing as that person being inside the builidng.

If you do not know what I am talking about, or do not have someone you can work closely with that who do, my suggestion to you is not to attempt it. (for your own safety)

If you do insist on trying, make sure you have nothing important, crucial, or otherwise critical on any of your connected servers and workstations.