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General discussion

VPN

Feb 23, 2004 11:11PM PST

I am wondering if anyone can help me with my problem connecting to the VPN. When trying to connect I get an Error 721: Remote computer is not responding. I have already ruled out the router and the VPN server. I can connect just fine with my user name a password form another PC, using the same router and server. There is something on my own configuration that is causing me not to be able to connect. The VPN Client is not the issue either. I have that set up exactly as the other pc that works. I am using WIN2K Pro, and have both the windows version of VPN Client and another provided by my company. Both give me the same result. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

Discussion is locked

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Re:VPN
Feb 23, 2004 11:21PM PST

Try "the usual."

Some firewall is installed. Remember that even when "disabled" they still work. I end up uninstalling such AFTER I update the OS to the latest Service Pack and patches so we don't get the MS Blaster or other worms.

Next, be sure to let your company's IT fix it. It's for their benefit.

Bob

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Re:VPN. Oops. Forgot about the router issue.
Feb 23, 2004 11:55PM PST

You didn't mention the router make/model. For instance the Linksys BEFSR41 supports just one VPN connection. The subsequent connections fail.

To fix, you go get the VPN router version of the Linksys. Some get upset at this and change makes.

Bob

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Re:Re:VPN. Oops. Forgot about the router issue.
Feb 24, 2004 12:15AM PST

There are 9 other people in the office using the same connetion, and so far I am the only one having any sort of problem. I have requested IT support and they have been unable to come up with anything remotely. Looks like they are going to have to come out here and take a look at it. Thanks.

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Re:Re:Re:VPN. Oops. Forgot about the router issue.
Mar 1, 2004 6:00PM PST
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Re:VPN
Feb 24, 2004 7:16AM PST

Have you checked the networking setup on this particular box. Maybe even the built-in firewalling capabilities of win2k. remote computer not responding sounds like your local pc isn't accepting messages on some port or protocol. worth a look. hth

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Re:Re:VPN
Mar 2, 2004 10:01PM PST

IT has not dug too thoroughly into this for me. They just want to format the pc. What you are saying is the area that I was leaning. I don't think that there are any built in firewalls on win2k, I was told that that didn't come out till xp. I would like to know how to troubleshoot tcp ports on my machine though. What ports will I need open for my vpn to work, and how can I do this. I did have aol instant messenger on my pc, but have since wiped it out. IT seems to think that this took over one of the ports that I need. He didn't sound too sure though so I don't know how far he investigated it...or even knew how to.

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Windows NT/2000 does have a firewall.
Mar 2, 2004 10:22PM PST

I will not debate if one thinks it is or is not, but let me share this...

Look at the TCP/IP SECURITY area in NT/2000 (and beyond?) to see this. Hint: via the TCP/IP Security console located at ... Properties > Advanced > Options
> TCP/IP Filtering.

Again, just offering that such a filter exists.

In closing, any number of MALWARE, pests and parasites hijack the LSP (layered service provider) which causes all sorts of lost time as you search for this or that. Hint: Type LSPFIX at http://www.google.com for more information about the LSP.

Microsoft didn't provide too many repair tools or a "OS integrity" or any "intrusion detection" tools, so the scorched Earth approach is a valid method.

Bob

Bob