Local and Remote Network Connections

Because all services and communication methods are configured within the connection, you do not need to use external management tools to configure dial-up, VPN, or direct connections. For example, the settings for a dial-up connection include the features to be used before, during, and after connecting. These include the modem you use to dial, the type of password authentication and data encryption you use upon connecting, and the remote network protocols you use after you connect.

Because settings are established per connection, you can create different connections that apply to different connection scenarios and their specific needs. For example, if you use a reserved TCP/IP address when you dial into your corporate office, you can configure a connection with a static TCP/IP address. You might also have a connection configured for an ISP. If your ISP allocates TCP/IP addresses using PPP, that connections TCP/IP settings are set to Obtain an IP address automatically .

Connection status, which includes the duration and speed of a connection, is viewed from the connection itself; you do not need to use an external status tool. For more information about configuring connections, see Windows 2000 Help.

All connections are configured by right-clicking the connection, and then clicking Properties .