How to Configuring Kerio VPN Server

Configuring a Kerio VPN Server involves several steps to ensure a secure and functional VPN connection for your network. Kerio Control, previously known as Kerio WinRoute Firewall, is a popular VPN server solution. Below, I’ll outline the general steps to configure it. Please note that specific steps may vary depending on your version of Kerio Control, so refer to the official documentation for your version if needed.

Prerequisites:

1. Kerio Control Installation: Ensure that you have Kerio Control installed on your server.
2. Static IP Address: Assign a static IP address to your server. This is important for consistency in your VPN configuration.

Configuration Steps:

1. Access the Admin Console:
   • Open a web browser and enter the IP address of your Kerio Control server (e.g., https://192.168.1.1:4081) in the address bar.
   • Log in with your administrator credentials.
2. Create VPN Users:
   • Under “Configuration,” go to “Users” or “Local Groups and Users.”
   • Create user accounts for those who will connect to the VPN.
3. Configure VPN Server:
   • Under “Configuration,” select “Interfaces.”
   • Edit your external network interface (usually WAN) and enable the “Kerio VPN Server” option.
   • Configure the settings, such as IP address assignment and DNS settings, according to your network requirements.
4. Define VPN IP Address Pool:
   • In the Admin Console, go to “Configuration” > “Interfaces.”
   • Click on your external network interface (e.g., WAN).
   • Under “VPN Server,” define a range of IP addresses that will be assigned to VPN clients.
5. Create VPN Policy Rules:
   • Under “Configuration,” go to “Traffic Rules.”
   • Create policy rules that allow traffic from VPN clients to the internal network. Ensure these rules are correctly ordered to allow the desired traffic flow.
6. Authentication and Authorization:
   • Under “Configuration,” go to “Users.”
   • Configure authentication methods (e.g., username and password) for VPN users.
   • Set permissions and access control for users as needed.
7. Security Settings:
   • Under “Configuration,” go to “Security.”
   • Configure security settings such as encryption and authentication methods. Use strong encryption and authentication methods for enhanced security.
8. Testing:
   • Connect to the VPN server using a VPN client, such as Kerio VPN Client or other compatible VPN software.
   • Test the connection to ensure it’s working as expected.
9. Logging and Monitoring:
   • Monitor the VPN server logs regularly for any issues or security incidents.
   • Configure logging and monitoring settings as needed.
10. Backup Configuration:
    • Regularly back up your Kerio Control configuration to prevent data loss in case of system failure.
11. Firewall Rules:
    • Review and adjust firewall rules as needed to allow or restrict VPN traffic.
12. Regular Maintenance:
    • Keep your Kerio Control server and VPN software up to date with the latest security patches and updates.

Always consult the official documentation for your specific version of Kerio Control for detailed and up-to-date instructions. Additionally, consider the specific needs of your network and security policies when configuring your Kerio VPN server.