DirectAccess is a new feature of Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 that enables remote users to securely access shared resources, Web sites, and applications on an internal network without connecting to a virtual private network (VPN). DirectAccess establishes bi-directional connectivity with an internal network every time a DirectAccess-enabled computer is connected to the Internet. Users never have to think about connecting to the internal network, and IT administrators can manage remote computers outside the office, even when the computers are not connected to the VPN.

DirectAccess requires clients running Windows 7 or Windows Server 2008 R2 and at least one DirectAccess server running Windows Server 2008 R2.

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Note
DirectAccess requires Windows Server® 2008 R2 and Windows® 7. DirectAccess is not available in the Windows Server® 2008 or Windows Vista® operating systems.

DirectAccess for Windows Server 2008 R2