Can't connect to VPN on OS X ML server outside of local network

Question

Level 1

23 points

Can't connect to VPN on OS X ML server outside of local network

I have setup server on a Mac mini (cam installed) and am using an Airport Extreme router. I have followed the instruction for setting up a VPN and even gone through the tutorials offered by Todd Olthoff on YouTube. ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VRAtWnNV71k&feature=share&list=UUD1-hwFmYAz5Pcpgx HV7dDA )

I have first setup the other services on the server before hand (DNS, Open Directory & Profile Manager). I have set the network up as a .private network.

I try and send out the files I can create to auto-configure a client system. It runs and connect fine on a MacBook Pro if I remain on the local network---obviously not that functional. Any other system (iPad, MacBookPro, etc) outside the local area network reports it can't find the server. I do not have any BackToMyMac services truned on either in the MacMini or the AE. Really no idea on where to do.

I don't have a static IP, but it is stable and stays the same unless I disconnection the router. I do have a certificate, but it's private and not a purchased certified certificate.

I have no idea where to go to find the problem or what to try next. Any suggestions?

Thanks.

Posted on Nov 29, 2012 12:14 PM

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Answer 1

tolthoff

Level 1

31 points

Dec 24, 2012 6:01 PM in response to kb8wfh

Sorry to hear you are having trouble setting up VPN. Since you are using a .private address put in your public IP address instead of your host name on your client machines. Since the .private address is not registered There is no way to connect it to your public IP. Hope that helps.

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Answer 2

iToaster

Level 3

739 points

Dec 27, 2012 3:28 PM in response to kb8wfh

you'll need to use a FQDN that points to your external IP or just your external IP address

since you don't have a static IP you will need to take this into account when it changes

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Answer 3

kb8wfh Author

Level 1

23 points

Dec 27, 2012 4:47 PM in response to kb8wfh

I used NoIP and got a domain through them that I used as the external server name for the VPN and it worked like a charm. Simple enough to set up at that point that I didn't mind not being able to use the self-configuration file the VPN system can make for you on the server application. Thanks for all your help.

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