Local and Remote Network Connections

Use the quick guide to configure connections for local and remote network connectivity, and learn about the new features and functionality improvements upon previous versions of Windows. Also use the quick guide to learn how to configure security Group Policy settings and to use the Internet Connection Sharing feature.

 Understand local and remote network connections.

Learn about the Network and Dial-up Connections folder, which combines features that were formerly configured in the Network Control Panel with functionality found in Windows 98 and Windows NT 4.0 Dial-up Networking. Learn what a connection is and what types of connections you can configure. Read an overview of the Connection Manager and Connection Point Services tools, which provide the opportunity for you to deploy preconfigured connections and customized dialers to your enterprise users.

• See Overview to Local and Remote Network Connections later in this chapter.

 How do I create and configure connections?

Setup automatically creates a local area connection for each network adapter. This connection is preconfigured with the services needed for file and print sharing and the TCP/IP protocol. All other types of connections can be created by using Make New Connection in the Network and Dial-up Connections folder. Review the process of logging on and authentication for connections, and find out how to view the status of a local area connection. Determine which clients, services, and protocols are installed by default with a local area connection. Learn how to configure protocols, remote connections, and advanced settings.

• See Creating, Configuring, and Monitoring Connections later in this chapter.

 Understand network security.

Connection security for dial-up, virtual private network (VPN), and direct connections is implemented through a combination of password authentication, data encryption, and callback options. Authentication options range from unencrypted passwords to the use of public key authentication methods, such as smart cards and certificates. Review the available authentication protocols and data encryption, and learn how authentication and encryption work. Review the process of callback.

• See Remote Network Security later in this chapter.

 Review and use Group Policy settings.

You can use Group Policy to manage the configuration of connections in your enterprise. For example, a Group Policy can be set to prevent your users from deleting their connections. Review the Group Policy settings that affect the Network and Dial-up Connections folder.

• See Local Group Policy Settings later in this chapter.

 Learn how to share an Internet connection.

If you are in an environment in which it is not cost-effective or feasible to provide direct Internet access for all computers, such as a small office or branch office network environment, you can use the Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) feature to share one Internet connection between all of your computers.

• See Internet Connection Sharing later in this chapter.

 Review an Internet Connection Sharing scenario.

Learn how to establish a shared connection and review a scenario in which a fictitious organization establishes and uses a shared connection.

• See Internet Connection Sharing Scenario: Connecting Your Branch Offices Intranet to the Internet later in this chapter.

 Use diagnostic tools to troubleshoot networking problems.

Diagnostic tools allow you to record modem or Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) activity, or to diagnose networking problems. Learn which tools to use, and review solutions to common problems.

• See Troubleshooting later in this chapter.