Summary

This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: Connecting to company network remotely. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.

Common Causes

Connecting to Company Network Remotely - Business User Guide

Problem

You need to work from home or elsewhere but can't access the company network, files, or applications.

Overview

Remote access to the company network is typically achieved through:

1. VPN (Virtual Private Network) — encrypts your connection

2. Remote Desktop — access a work computer

3. Cloud Services — use web-based company apps

Solutions

Option 1: Use the Company VPN (Most Common)

Step 1: Connect to Your Home Internet

• Ensure you have a working internet connection
• For sensitive work, avoid public Wi-Fi

Step 2: Connect to VPN

1. Open your company's VPN client (search "VPN" in Start menu)

2. Enter the server address (provided by IT, e.g., vpn.company.com)

3. Sign in with your domain credentials

4. Wait for "Connected" status

5. The VPN icon will appear in your system tray

Step 3: Access Company Resources

Once connected, you can:

• Access shared drives (\servername)
• Use internal applications
• Access email normally
• Connect via Remote Desktop

Option 2: Use Remote Desktop

If you have a work computer that's always on:

1. Ensure VPN is connected (if required)

2. Press Win + R, type mstsc, press Enter

3. Enter your work computer's name or IP address

4. Sign in with your domain credentials

5. Work on your remote computer as if you were there

Option 3: Use Cloud Services (No VPN Needed)

Many company resources are available via browser:

• Email: outlook.office.com
• Files: OneDrive, SharePoint
• Teams: teams.microsoft.com
• Company Portal: Your company's internal website

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

VPN Won't Connect:

• Check your home internet is working
• Verify the VPN server address is correct
• Try restarting the VPN client
• Contact IT if problems persist

Can't Access Shared Drives:

• Ensure VPN is connected
• Try accessing via OneDrive instead
• Check with IT that you have permissions

Applications Not Working:

• Some apps require VPN even if cloud-based
• Try accessing via the company portal
• Contact IT for app-specific access

Security Best Practices When Working Remotely

• Always use VPN when on public Wi-Fi
• Lock your computer when stepping away (Win + L)
• Don't let family members use your work computer
• Don't save sensitive files to personal cloud storage
• Use company-approved devices when possible
• Report any suspicious activity to IT immediately

Quick Checklist Before You Start Working Remotely

• [ ] VPN client is installed
• [ ] You know the VPN server address
• [ ] You have your domain credentials
• [ ] You have a stable internet connection
• [ ] You know how to contact IT if issues arise

Need More Help?

Contact IT Support with:

• What you're trying to access
• The error message (if any)
• Whether VPN is connected
• What device you're using

Still Having Issues?