Connecting to company network remotely

Summary

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

Common Causes

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)

1. Connect to Your Home Internet
   • Ensure you have a working internet connection
   • For sensitive work, avoid public Wi‑Fi
2. Install or Update the VPN Client

   Download the latest Cisco AnyConnect client from the Connecting to company VPN from home page or the company intranet. Run the installer and follow the prompts. If the client is already installed, check for updates via the client’s Help → Check for Updates menu.

3. Connect to the VPN
   1. Open the Cisco AnyConnect client (search “Cisco AnyConnect” in the Start menu).
   2. Enter the server address (e.g., vpn.company.com).
   3. Sign in with your domain credentials and complete the multi‑factor authentication prompt.
   4. Wait for the “Connected” status.
   5. The VPN icon will appear in your system tray.
4. Access Company Resources

   Once connected, you can:

   • Access shared drives (\\servername) – see Cannot access shared network drives.
   • Use internal applications.
   • Access email normally.
   • Connect via Remote Desktop.

Option 2: Use Remote Desktop

1. Ensure VPN is Connected (if required for your corporate network).
2. Press Win + R, type mstsc, and press Enter.
3. Enter your work computer’s name or IP address.
4. Sign in with your domain credentials – see Cannot login with 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 a browser:

• Email: outlook.office.com
• Files: OneDrive, SharePoint
• Teams: teams.microsoft.com
• Company Portal: Cannot login to company portal

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

VPN Won’t Connect

• Check that your home internet is working.
• Verify the VPN server address is correct.
• Make sure your MFA device is reachable and the prompt is approved.
• Restart the Cisco AnyConnect client.
• If problems persist, see the Connecting to company VPN from home article or Open a Ticket.

Can’t Access Shared Drives

• Ensure the VPN is connected.
• Try accessing the files via OneDrive or SharePoint.
• Check with IT that you have the required permissions – see Cannot access shared network drives.

Applications Not Working

• Some apps require VPN even if they are cloud‑based.
• Try accessing them through the company portal.
• Contact IT for app‑specific access issues.

DNS or Split‑Tunnelling Issues

• Flush the DNS cache: open a command prompt and run ipconfig /flushdns.
• If you need only corporate resources routed through the VPN, verify split‑tunnelling settings in the client.
• For MFA token errors, ensure the correct token is selected in the authentication prompt.

Security Best Practices When Working Remotely

• Always use the 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 and up to date.
• [ ] 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?

If you still need assistance, Open a Ticket with IT Support and include:

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

Still Having Issues?