Connect to domain account over VPN

domainvpn

I've just wiped my laptop and reinstalled Windows 8.1 and have connected it to the work domain by connecting to our VPN while logged into a local account.

I'm now trying to log into the laptop using my domain account but Windows can't connect to the domain controller as there is no VPN raised at the time at logging in.

I don't know an awful lot about the VPN itself – I'm connecting to it via the standard Windows VPN client and am using a server address that looks something like www.blah.com.

Is there anything I can do besides wait until I'm back in the office on Monday?

Best Answer

If you can log in with the local administrator account, you can then set a VPN connection to be able to be used by all users. This then enables it to be connected from the login screen so you can contact your DC.

You'll have to create a new VPN connection as an existing one can't be changed to a shared one.

To set up a shared one:

  1. Open the Network and Sharing Centre

  2. Click Set up a new connection or network

  3. Select Connect to a workplace

  4. If you're asked if you want to use a connection that you already have, select No, create a new connection

  5. Click Use my Internet connection (VPN)

  6. Fill in the relevant details for the Internet address, and make sure to tick Allow other people to use this connection - this is what makes it a shared one:

    Shared VPN Check Box

  7. Click Create

On the login screen going forward, you should see a network icon in the lower left. This will switch the screen to logging in over VPN.

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