Chapter 5 - Network Connection Wizard

Abstract

Windows 2000 can support multiple network connections. The Network Connection Wizard allows one to easily set up inbound and outbound connections with minimal protocol and service configuration. To create a network connection, one needs to start the Network Connection Wizard. The wizard has multiple options from which to choose, depending on the configuration and networking needs. Dialing up to a private network connects one's telephone line to an ISP, or to another modem, to gain access to a private network. Dialing up to a private network primarily involves entering a telephone number for the network or system that one is connecting to. Dialing up to the Internet actually launches a second wizard called the Internet Connection Wizard. After finishing setting up the Internet account, the wizard walks through the process of setting up an Internet e-mail account. To set up an e-mail account, it needs information such as logon name and password, e-mail address, type of mail server, and incoming and outgoing address. The Network Connection Wizard also allows one to make a connection to a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN is most commonly used to securely connect two or more networks over the Internet. The process of connecting to a VPN is very much like the previous wizards; the primary difference is that it is needed to enter either a host name or IP address of the VPN destination. The Network Connection Wizard can be used to create a direct cable connection to another system. This process involves selecting the role (that is, guest, host), and finally selecting the device that is used to make this connection.