LifeBytes Journal

Overview

WireGuard is a modern VPN protocol that is fast, secure, and simple to deploy. In this tutorial, you will build a production-ready WireGuard server on Ubuntu 24.04 and connect Windows and mobile clients. You will configure routing, firewall rules, auto-start, and testing. The guide uses clear steps and SEO-friendly terms to help you go from zero to a working zero-trust VPN in minutes.

Prerequisites

You need an Ubuntu 24.04 server (cloud VPS or on-prem) with a public IP, sudo access, and UDP port 51820 open on any external firewall. If the server is behind a home router, forward UDP 51820 to the server’s LAN address. For clients, you need a Windows 10/11 PC and an Android or iOS device.

Step 1: Install WireGuard on Ubuntu 24.04

Update packages and install WireGuard tools:
sudo apt update && sudo apt install -y wireguard qrencode

Create a configuration directory and restrict permissions:
sudo mkdir -p /etc/wireguard && sudo chmod 700 /etc/wireguard

Step 2: Generate keys and base server config

Generate the server keypair:
cd /etc/wireguard
sudo wg genkey | sudo tee server_private.key | sudo wg pubkey | sudo tee server_public.key
sudo chmod 600 server_private.key

Set your VPN subnet and interface variables (eth0 is common on cloud VMs; adjust if yours differs):
export WG_IFACE=wg0
export WG_SUBNET=10.7.0.0/24
export SERVER_ADDR=10.7.0.1/24
export WAN_IFACE=eth0

Create the server configuration file:
sudo bash -c 'cat >/etc/wireguard/wg0.conf' <<EOF
[Interface]
Address = 10.7.0.1/24
ListenPort = 51820
PrivateKey = $(cat /etc/wireguard/server_private.key)
# Accept forwarding and NAT to the Internet
PostUp = iptables -A FORWARD -i %i -j ACCEPT; iptables -A FORWARD -o %i -j ACCEPT; iptables -t nat -A POSTROUTING -o ${WAN_IFACE} -j MASQUERADE
PostDown = iptables -D FORWARD -i %i -j ACCEPT; iptables -D FORWARD -o %i -j ACCEPT; iptables -t nat -D POSTROUTING -o ${WAN_IFACE} -j MASQUERADE
EOF'

Step 3: Enable IP forwarding and open the port

Enable IPv4 forwarding persistently:
echo "net.ipv4.ip_forward=1" | sudo tee /etc/sysctl.d/99-wireguard.conf
sudo sysctl --system

If you use UFW, allow the WireGuard port:
sudo ufw allow 51820/udp

Start and enable the VPN interface:
sudo systemctl enable --now wg-quick@wg0

Check status and listen port:
sudo wg show

Step 4: Add a Windows client

On the server, generate a keypair for your Windows PC (you can also generate on the PC inside the app):
sudo wg genkey | sudo tee win_private.key | sudo wg pubkey | sudo tee win_public.key

Add the Windows peer to the server:
sudo bash -c 'cat >>/etc/wireguard/wg0.conf' <<EOF
[Peer]
PublicKey = $(cat /etc/wireguard/win_public.key)
AllowedIPs = 10.7.0.2/32
EOF'
Then restart the interface:
sudo systemctl restart wg-quick@wg0

On Windows, install the WireGuard app from the official site or Microsoft Store. Create a new tunnel with this configuration (replace placeholders):
[Interface]
PrivateKey = <win_private_key>
Address = 10.7.0.2/32
DNS = 1.1.1.1

[Peer]
PublicKey = <server_public_key>
AllowedIPs = 0.0.0.0/0, ::/0
Endpoint = <server_public_ip>:51820
PersistentKeepalive = 25

Copy values:
— <server_public_key> is the content of /etc/wireguard/server_public.key.
— <win_private_key> is the content of win_private.key if you generated it on the server, otherwise use the private key generated by the Windows app.
— AllowedIPs set to 0.0.0.0/0, ::/0 routes all traffic through the VPN (full tunnel). For split tunnel, use 10.7.0.0/24 only.

Step 5: Add a mobile client (Android/iOS)

On the phone, install the WireGuard app. Creating keys on the device is the most secure method: add a new tunnel, let the app generate keys, and copy the public key.

Add the mobile peer on the server (replace with the phone’s public key and desired IP):
sudo bash -c 'cat >>/etc/wireguard/wg0.conf' <<EOF
[Peer]
PublicKey = <mobile_public_key>
AllowedIPs = 10.7.0.3/32
EOF'
sudo systemctl restart wg-quick@wg0

On the mobile app, create or import a config like this (adjust placeholders):
[Interface]
PrivateKey = <mobile_private_key>
Address = 10.7.0.3/32
DNS = 1.1.1.1

[Peer]
PublicKey = <server_public_key>
AllowedIPs = 0.0.0.0/0, ::/0
Endpoint = <server_public_ip>:51820
PersistentKeepalive = 25

Optional: if you prefer generating the mobile config on the server and scanning a QR code, create a file (for example /etc/wireguard/mobile1.conf) with the contents above and show a QR in the terminal:
sudo qrencode -t ansiutf8 < /etc/wireguard/mobile1.conf

Step 6: Auto-start, verify, and test

Ensure the interface starts on boot:
sudo systemctl enable wg-quick@wg0

Verify that peers handshaked and received IPs:
sudo wg show

Test connectivity from a client: open a browser and check your public IP (it should show the server’s IP if using a full tunnel). Also, ping the server’s VPN IP:
ping 10.7.0.1

Troubleshooting quick wins

No handshake? Confirm UDP 51820 is open and reachable. Use:
sudo ss -ulpn | grep 51820 on the server to see if it is listening, and sudo tcpdump -ni any udp port 51820 to check if packets arrive.

Wrong interface name? Replace eth0 with your actual outbound interface (check with ip route get 1.1.1.1). Update PostUp/PostDown accordingly and restart the service.

Double NAT issues? Set PersistentKeepalive = 25 on clients and ensure router port forwarding is correct.

Can’t access the Internet from the VPN? Confirm IPv4 forwarding is enabled and that NAT rules exist (see iptables -t nat -S). Also verify AllowedIPs values on both sides.

Security and best practices

Rotate keys periodically and remove stale peers from wg0.conf. Keep Ubuntu and WireGuard updated. Use strong SSH hygiene on the server and restrict management access by IP if possible. For compliance-driven environments, log changes to /etc/wireguard with version control (without committing private keys).

You now have a fast, modern WireGuard VPN on Ubuntu 24.04 with Windows and mobile clients. This layout is minimal yet production-ready and can scale by adding more peers with unique /32 addresses inside the same VPN subnet.

Introduction

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are essential for securing internet connections, especially when accessing confidential data or bypassing geo-restrictions. WireGuard is a modern, fast, and secure VPN protocol that has gained popularity for its simplicity and performance. In this tutorial, you will learn how to install, configure, and secure a WireGuard VPN server on Ubuntu 22.04.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure that you have a server running Ubuntu 22.04 with root or sudo access. You will also need a client device (Windows, Linux, or mobile) to connect to the VPN. Make sure your system is up to date by running sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade.

Step 1: Install WireGuard

WireGuard is included in the default Ubuntu repositories. To install it, open your terminal and run the following command:

sudo apt install wireguard

This will install both the server and client components. Once the installation is complete, you can proceed to generate the keys required for your VPN setup.

Step 2: Generate Server and Client Keys

WireGuard uses public and private keys for authentication. Generate the server keys with the following commands:

umask 077
wg genkey | tee server_private.key | wg pubkey > server_public.key

Repeat the process on your client machine to generate a separate pair of keys (client_private.key and client_public.key).

Step 3: Configure the WireGuard Server

Create the main configuration file for WireGuard on the server:

sudo nano /etc/wireguard/wg0.conf

Add the following content, replacing the keys and IP addresses accordingly:

[Interface]
Address = 10.0.0.1/24
ListenPort = 51820
PrivateKey = <server_private.key contents>

[Peer]
PublicKey = <client_public.key contents>
AllowedIPs = 10.0.0.2/32

Save and close the file. The AllowedIPs option specifies which IP addresses are allowed to be routed through the VPN.

Step 4: Enable IP Forwarding and Firewall Rules

To allow traffic to flow between the VPN and the internet, enable IP forwarding:

sudo sysctl -w net.ipv4.ip_forward=1

Make this change permanent by editing /etc/sysctl.conf and un-commenting or adding net.ipv4.ip_forward=1.

Adjust your firewall to allow WireGuard traffic:

sudo ufw allow 51820/udp

Step 5: Start and Enable WireGuard

To start the WireGuard service and ensure it runs on boot, use:

sudo systemctl start [email protected]
sudo systemctl enable [email protected]

Verify the status with sudo systemctl status [email protected].

Step 6: Configure the Client

On your client device, create a configuration file (e.g., wg0-client.conf):

[Interface]
PrivateKey = <client_private.key contents>
Address = 10.0.0.2/24

[Peer]
PublicKey = <server_public.key contents>
Endpoint = <your_server_ip>:51820
AllowedIPs = 0.0.0.0/0

Install the WireGuard client on your device and import this configuration. Connect to test the VPN setup.

Security Tips

For enhanced security, use strong keys and restrict SSH to trusted IPs only. Regularly monitor your server logs and keep your system updated. Consider using fail2ban for added protection against brute-force attacks.

Conclusion

WireGuard offers a fast and secure VPN solution for modern networks. By following this guide, you have set up and secured a WireGuard server on Ubuntu 22.04. This will help protect your data and maintain privacy when accessing the internet or corporate resources remotely.

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are essential for securing network traffic, especially when transmitting sensitive data over potentially insecure networks like the internet. This tutorial will guide you through the process of setting up a VPN using Windows Server 2019, focusing on the use of Routing and Remote Access Service (RRAS) to enable VPN functionalities.

Prerequisites: Before starting, ensure you have administrative rights to the Windows Server 2019 system. Additionally, you'll need to have the server connected to your network and have an internet connection available. A static IP address for the server is recommended to avoid disruptions in the VPN service.

Step 1: Install the RRAS Role

First, install the RRAS role on your server. Open the 'Server Manager', click on 'Manage', and then 'Add Roles and Features'. Follow the on-screen instructions until you reach the 'Roles' section. Here, select 'Remote Access' and then proceed to install the role. After the installation, a configuration wizard will appear; however, close this for now as we will configure RRAS manually later.

Step 2: Configure RRAS

Once the role installation is complete, open the RRAS configuration by returning to the 'Server Manager', selecting 'Tools', and then 'Routing and Remote Access'. Right-click your server name and choose 'Configure and Enable Routing and Remote Access'. Choose 'Custom Configuration', then select 'VPN access', and finish by clicking 'Next' and 'Finish'. You will be prompted to start the service; agree to this to enable VPN functionalities.

Step 3: Configure Authentication and Network Policies

Authentication is crucial for a secure VPN. For this setup, we'll use the built-in Windows authentication. Go to the 'Routing and Remote Access' management console, right-click your server, navigate to 'Properties', and then the 'Security' tab. Here, under 'Authentication provider', choose 'Windows authentication'. Next, set up network policies by navigating to 'NPS (Local)' under 'Standard Configuration' in the 'Routing and Remote Access' console, and set conditions and constraints according to your organization's security requirements.

Step 4: Configure User Accounts for VPN Access

For users to access the VPN, they need enabled accounts. In 'Server Manager', go to 'Tools' > 'Active Directory Users and Computers'. Select 'Users', right-click on the user who needs VPN access, choose 'Properties', navigate to the 'Dial-in' tab, and check the 'Allow access' option under 'Network Access Permission'. Repeat this for all users who need VPN access.

Step 5: Connect to the VPN from a Client Machine

Finally, you need to connect to the VPN from a client machine. On the client, go to 'Settings' > 'Network & Internet' > 'VPN' > 'Add a VPN connection'. Enter the connection details for your server, which include the VPN type (likely SSTP or L2TP), and the sign-in info (user name and password). Once all details are filled in, click 'Save', and then connect by selecting the VPN connection and clicking 'Connect'.

Setting up a VPN on Windows Server 2019 using RRAS is a straightforward process that enhances your network's security. By following these steps, you can establish a functional and secure VPN that ensures your data is protected during transmission.

Introduction

Setting up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on Windows Server 2019 is essential for businesses seeking to secure their data communications and provide remote access to their network. This tutorial will guide you through the process of installing and configuring a VPN using Routing and Remote Access Service (RRAS) in Windows Server 2019.

Step 1: Install the RRAS Role

First, you need to install the RRAS role. Open the 'Server Manager', click on 'Manage', and then choose 'Add Roles and Features'. Proceed to the 'Roles' section and select 'Remote Access'. Then, in the 'Role Services' section of the installation wizard, check 'Routing' and 'Remote Access Services' > 'DirectAccess and VPN (RAS)'. Click 'Next' and then 'Install' to add these features to your server.

Step 2: Configure RRAS

After installation, open 'Routing and Remote Access' from the 'Tools' menu in 'Server Manager'. Right-click your server and select 'Configure and Enable Routing and Remote Access'. In the wizard that appears, choose 'Custom Configuration', then select 'VPN access', and follow the prompts to complete the configuration. Restart the RRAS service to apply changes.

Step 3: Configure Authentication and Network Policies

For security, it's crucial to configure authentication methods. Go to the RRAS console, right-click your server, and choose 'Properties'. Navigate to the 'Security' tab and click 'Authentication Methods'. Here, you can enable Microsoft CHAP Version 2 (MS-CHAP v2) for encryption. Next, configure network policies in the 'Network Policy Server' under 'Policies'. Ensure you specify conditions and settings that align with your security requirements.

Step 4: Set Up VPN Users

In 'Server Manager', go to 'Tools' > 'Computer Management' and navigate to 'Local Users and Groups'. Here, you can create new users or configure existing ones to access the VPN. Right-click 'Users', select 'New User', and fill in the details. Ensure each user has a strong password. After creating users, ensure they have permission to connect to the VPN via their user properties under the 'Dial-in' tab.

Step 5: Configure Client Machines

To connect to the VPN from client machines, configure the VPN client settings on each machine. Go to 'Network Settings' > 'VPN' and click 'Add a VPN connection'. Use 'Windows (built-in)' for the VPN provider, input the server's name or IP address, and select 'Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol (SSTP)' as the VPN type. Enter login credentials and connect to the server using the established VPN connection.

Conclusion

Setting up a VPN on Windows Server 2019 enhances your network's security and allows remote access to your resources. By following these steps, you can ensure that your VPN is properly configured for secure and efficient operation. Remember to regularly update your system and check the security settings to maintain optimal protection.

Setting up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on a Windows Server 2019 is crucial for businesses seeking secure remote access and data protection. This tutorial guides you through the steps to configure a VPN using the Routing and Remote Access Service (RRAS) in Windows Server 2019, ensuring secure communication over the internet.

Step 1: Install the Routing and Remote Access Role

Begin by logging into your Windows Server 2019. Open the 'Server Manager' dashboard, navigate to 'Manage' and select 'Add Roles and Features'. Follow the wizard until you reach the 'Roles' page. Check the 'Remote Access' role and then proceed to 'Features'. Here, ensure 'Routing' is selected, then continue and complete the installation.

Step 2: Configure RRAS

Once the role installation is complete, go back to the 'Server Manager'. Under 'Tools', select 'Routing and Remote Access'. Right-click your server’s name and choose 'Configure and Enable Routing and Remote Access'. Opt for 'Custom configuration', select 'VPN access', and finish the configuration wizard. Restart the RRAS service to apply changes.

Step 3: Configure Authentication and Network Policies

Authentication is a key element in VPN security. Navigate to the 'Routing and Remote Access' console, right-click on your server, and select 'Properties'. Go to the 'Security' tab, choose 'Authentication provider' as 'RADIUS Authentication', and set up your RADIUS server if required. Next, under the 'Policies' node, define new network policies that suit your organization's security requirements.

Step 4: Set Up User Accounts and Permissions

User management is essential for maintaining VPN security. In the 'Computer Management' window, under 'Local Users and Groups', set up user accounts that will have VPN access. Assign permissions and set password policies to enhance security. It’s also advisable to create user groups for better management and scalability.

Step 5: Configure Client Computers

On each client computer that will connect to the VPN, set up a VPN connection in the 'Network & Internet' settings. Use the public IP address or domain name of your Windows Server as the server name or address. Ensure that the VPN type matches the settings specified on your server and enter the necessary credentials.

To finalize, it's important to test the VPN connection from a client computer to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Verify that the network resources accessible via the VPN are working as expected without compromising security.

By following these detailed steps, you can set up a robust and secure VPN on Windows Server 2019, enhancing your organization's network security and remote access capabilities.

Introduction

Setting up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on Windows Server 2022 is crucial for businesses looking to secure their network communications and provide remote access to resources securely. This tutorial will guide you through the process of configuring a VPN using Routing and Remote Access Service (RRAS) in Windows Server 2022.

Step 1: Installing the RRAS Role

First, you need to install the RRAS role. Log in to your Windows Server 2022 machine with administrative rights. Open the 'Server Manager', click on 'Manage', and then select 'Add Roles and Features'. Proceed through the wizard until you reach the 'Roles' section. Check the box for 'Remote Access' and then continue to the 'Features' section, making sure to install all required features. Click 'Install' to complete the setup.

Step 2: Configuring RRAS

Once the installation completes, open the 'Server Manager' again, click on 'Tools', and select 'Routing and Remote Access'. Right-click your server name and choose 'Configure and Enable Routing and Remote Access'. Choose 'Custom Configuration' in the wizard, select 'VPN access', and proceed to finish the configuration. This action enables your server to accept VPN connections.

Step 3: Configuring Authentication and Network Policies

Authentication is vital for secure connections. Open the 'Routing and Remote Access' management console, right-click on your server, and select 'Properties'. Go to the 'Security' tab, under 'Authentication provider', choose 'RADIUS Authentication'. You can use Windows Authentication for a simpler setup, but RADIUS is preferred for better management. Next, configure Network Policies in 'Network Policy Server' under Administrative Tools to define who can connect and the conditions for their connections.

Step 4: Setting Up Firewall and Port Forwarding

For VPNs to work properly, specific ports need to be open on your server's firewall. Typically, you will need to open port 1723 for PPTP VPNs and the appropriate port for other types of VPNs like SSTP or L2TP. Additionally, enable port forwarding on your router to forward these ports to the IP address of your Windows Server. This setup is crucial for remote users to access the VPN server from outside the local network.

Step 5: Testing the VPN Connection

Finally, test your VPN setup by connecting from a client computer. Set up a VPN connection from a remote device using the credentials given and the public IP address of your VPN server. If everything is configured correctly, you should be able to access internal resources securely through the VPN connection. Troubleshoot any connection issues by checking logs in the 'Event Viewer' and ensuring all settings are correctly configured.

Conclusion

Setting up a VPN on Windows Server 2022 enhances your network's security by providing encrypted connections for remote access. By following the steps in this tutorial, you can ensure that your network communications are safeguarded and accessible to authorized users only. Remember, maintaining a secure network environment requires regular updates and monitoring to adapt to new security threats.

Introduction

Setting up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on Windows Server 2019 is an excellent way for businesses to ensure secure remote access to their network. This guide will walk you through the steps of installing and configuring a VPN server using the Remote Access role in Windows Server 2019.

Step 1: Install the Remote Access Role

First, you need to install the Remote Access role. Log in to your Windows Server 2019 system as an Administrator. Open the 'Server Manager' dashboard and click on 'Add roles and features'. Proceed through the wizard until you reach the 'Roles' page. Here, check the 'Remote Access' role and click 'Next'. On the 'Role Services' page, select 'DirectAccess and VPN (RAS)', then click 'Next' and 'Install'. The installation might take a few minutes.

Step 2: Configure Routing and Remote Access

Once the role installation completes, open 'Server Manager' again, and in the 'Tools' menu, select 'Routing and Remote Access'. Right-click your server name and select 'Configure and Enable Routing and Remote Access'. In the wizard that appears, choose 'Custom Configuration', then select 'VPN access'. Follow through the wizard, finish the configuration, and start the service.

Step 3: Configure Authentication and Network Policies

Authentication is crucial for VPN security. Open the 'Routing and Remote Access' management console. Navigate to 'Remote Access Logging & Policies', then right-click 'Network Policies' and select 'New'. Name your policy and set conditions based on your security requirements (e.g., Windows Groups containing VPN users). Under 'Constraints', configure the authentication methods, such as MS-CHAP v2 or EAP. Finish by setting the access permission to 'Grant access'.

Step 4: Set Up User Accounts and Groups

For users to access the VPN, they need proper credentials. In the 'Server Manager', go to 'Tools' > 'Active Directory Users and Computers'. Create a new user group specifically for VPN access. Add users to this group as necessary. Ensure these users are enabled and have permission to dial in remotely, which can be set in the user profile under the 'Dial-in' tab.

Step 5: Configure Your Firewall and Test the Connection

Adjust your firewall settings to allow VPN traffic. Typically, this involves allowing port 1723 for PPTP or the appropriate port for your chosen protocol. Finally, test your VPN connection using a client computer. Set up a VPN connection pointing to your server's public IP address, authenticate with a user’s credentials, and verify that the connection is secure and stable.

Conclusion

Setting up a VPN on Windows Server 2019 enhances your network’s security by providing a secure method for remote access. By following these steps, you can ensure that your VPN is correctly configured and ready to serve your organizational needs. Remember, regular maintenance and updates are crucial to keep your VPN server secure.

Introduction

Setting up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on Windows Server 2022 can enhance your network's security by encrypting data and providing remote employees secure access to your company's network. This tutorial will guide you through the process of installing and configuring a VPN using Windows Server 2022’s built-in roles and features.

Step 1: Installing the Remote Access Role

First, you need to install the Remote Access role. Log into your server and open the Server Manager dashboard. Click on 'Add roles and features' and proceed through the wizard until you reach the 'Roles' screen. Here, select 'Remote Access' and then 'Next'. On the 'Role Services' page, check 'DirectAccess and VPN (RAS)' and also select 'Routing'. Continue with the installation and click 'Finish' once completed.

Step 2: Configuring the VPN Service

After installing the necessary role, open the 'Routing and Remote Access' console from the Tools menu in Server Manager. Right-click your server’s name and select 'Configure and Enable Routing and Remote Access'. Choose 'Custom configuration', then select 'VPN access'. Follow the wizard to completion and start the service.

Next, you need to configure your network to allow VPN connections. This involves setting up a new interface for inbound VPN connections. Go back to the 'Routing and Remote Access' console, right-click 'Ports', choose 'Properties', and ensure that there are ports available for SSTP, PPTP, and L2TP. This configuration depends on which protocols you intend to use for your VPN.

Step 3: Configuring User Access

VPN users need permission to connect remotely. Go to the 'Active Directory Users and Computers' console, and find the user account you want to grant VPN access to. Right-click the account, select 'Properties', and navigate to the 'Dial-in' tab. Here, check 'Allow access' under 'Network Access Permission'. This step is crucial for enabling individual user access.

Step 4: Setting Up Firewall and Security

Security is a critical aspect of VPN services. Make sure your firewall settings are configured to allow VPN traffic. Typically, you need to allow traffic on port 1723 for PPTP or port 500/4500 for L2TP over IPsec. Also, ensure that your VPN server has a static IP address to avoid connection issues.

Additionally, consider integrating additional security measures such as SSL certificates for SSTP or using stronger authentication methods like RADIUS or Active Directory instead of simple username-password authentication.

Conclusion

Setting up a VPN on Windows Server 2022 can seem daunting, but following these steps will help you create a secure environment for remote access. Regularly update your server and monitor VPN usage to maintain security and efficiency. With these steps, your organization can benefit from the enhanced security and flexibility that a VPN provides.

Setting up a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on Windows Server 2019 is a strategic step towards enhancing the security of your network. This guide will walk you through the process of configuring a VPN, ensuring that your network communications are encrypted and secure. Whether for a small business or a larger enterprise, a VPN on Windows Server 2019 can help safeguard sensitive data and provide remote access to network resources.

Step 1: Install the Remote Access Role

First, you need to install the Remote Access role on your server. To do this, log in to your Windows Server 2019 system as an Administrator. Open the Server Manager, and select Add Roles and Features. During the wizard, choose the Role-based or feature-based installation option and select your server. Scroll through the list of roles, check the Remote Access role, and then proceed to install the necessary features, including DirectAccess and VPN (RAS).

Step 2: Configure VPN Service

After installing the Remote Access role, open the Remote Access Management Console. Go to DirectAccess and VPN under Configuration in the left panel and then click on Run the Getting Started Wizard. Choose Deploy VPN only, which will launch the Routing and Remote Access Management Console. Right-click on your server’s name and select Configure and Enable Routing and Remote Access. Follow the wizard to configure the VPN. Choose Custom Configuration if you want more control over the protocols being used.

Step 3: Configure Protocols and Network Policies

For your VPN to function, you need to configure the appropriate network protocols. In the Routing and Remote Access Management Console, right-click on Ports and go to Properties. Ensure that there are enough ports available for the protocols you plan to use, such as SSTP, L2TP, or PPTP. Next, configure network policies by navigating to Network Policies in the left pane. Right-click to create a new policy and set conditions based on your security requirements, like user groups or authentication methods.

Step 4: Test Your VPN Connection

Once everything is configured, it’s crucial to test your VPN connection. From a client machine, attempt to connect to the VPN using the credentials provided. Ensure that the connection is secure and stable. Monitor the server's performance and adjust the configurations as necessary to optimize both security and performance.

Setting up a VPN on Windows Server 2019 requires careful planning and execution, but the security benefits are substantial. By following these steps, you can provide your network with a robust layer of protection against external threats while enabling secure remote access for authorized users.