These instructions allow a successful connect to the VPN. Successfully connecting is a multi-step process. Before we get started, there are a few terms we want to define:
OpenVPN – Software used to connect your device to the network.
Firewall – Something between 2 devices that enforces security.
System tray – The bottom right area near the clock. Hit the triangle to see everything.
Remote Desktop – Software used to connect to target computers.
Target computer – The machine or server we want to access.
Credentials – The specific username and password used to log into a system.
First Time Setup
Certificate Update
If you already have OpenVpn installed, you may need an updated security certificate.
Remote Desktop Connection
After the VPN is connected, use remote desktop to access the target machine. There are a few ways you can do this:
Once you have the remote desktop program open, use the IP address or computer name of the target machine. Using the IP address is more reliable.
If all goes well, you should connect with no issue. If not, keep reading!
Troubleshooting
The biggest issue is always credentials. Users often do not know their correct username. Often the username and password of the machine you are sitting at is different than the target machine. Remember to use the correct credentials.
Some secure systems require the domain name in front of the username. Something like “abc\jonny” or “ecot.us\jonny” or spelled out like ecotsupplies.us\jonny”
There can be issues due to the firewall of the target computer. The firewall sometimes will block connections when the computer reboots, loses power, or does an update.
If the VPN is already connected, right click on the tray icon and hit disconnect. Now, right click and hit connect. Enter your provided username and password when prompted (if required.)
OpenVPN support for Mac’s is limited. We’ll need to setup a different VPN if you’re on a Mac.
The best solution is a computer reboot. If that doesn’t fix it, you’ll often need some tech support.