Connecting to VPN with SonicWall NetExtender and Accessing a Workstation via RDP

Category: Software | Published on: Oct. 30, 2024, 11:44 p.m.

Overview

This guide explains how to connect to a Virtual Private Network (VPN) using SonicWall NetExtender and then remotely access your workstation through Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP).

Part 1: Connecting to VPN Using NetExtender

Step 1: Install NetExtender

  1. Download NetExtender:
    • Visit the SonicWall website or your IT department's shared resources to download the correct version for your operating system (Windows/Mac).
  2. Install NetExtender:
    • Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.

Step 2: Connect to the VPN

  1. Launch NetExtender:
    • Open the NetExtender application.
  2. Enter VPN Credentials:
    • Server Address: Enter the VPN server's address (e.g., vpn.company.com).
    • Username and Password: Enter your provided VPN credentials.
    • Domain: (Optional) If required by your organization, enter the domain name.
  3. Click Connect:
    • NetExtender will verify your credentials and establish a secure connection.
    • A notification will confirm a successful connection.

Part 2: Accessing the Workstation via RDP

Step 1: Locate the Workstation’s IP Address or Hostname

  1. Contact your IT department or check your workstation settings for the internal IP address or hostname.

Step 2: Enable Remote Desktop on Your Workstation

(If not already enabled; requires admin rights or IT assistance):

  1. Open Control Panel > System and Security > System.
  2. Click Remote Settings on the left-hand menu.
  3. Under Remote Desktop, select Allow remote connections to this computer.
  4. Click OK to save changes.

Step 3: Open Remote Desktop Connection on Your Device

  1. Press Windows + R, type mstsc, and press Enter.
  2. In the Computer field, enter the workstation's IP address or hostname.
  3. Click Connect.

Step 4: Enter Login Credentials

  1. Enter your workstation credentials (e.g., domain\username and password).
  2. Click OK to establish the remote session.

Troubleshooting Tips

  1. VPN Connection Issues:
    • Ensure you have the correct server address and credentials.
    • Check your internet connection.
    • Restart the NetExtender client if needed.
  2. RDP Connection Errors:
    • Verify that the workstation is powered on and connected to the network.
    • Confirm that Remote Desktop is enabled on the workstation.
    • Check firewall settings to ensure RDP is allowed (port 3389).