Windows 8.1 Simplifies VPNs

Virtual private networks (VPNs) receive better support in Windows 8.1 and Windows RT 8.1, including built-in third-party VPN clients and automatic triggering of a VPN connection when an application is launched if it requires a connection. These improvements could help organizations support VPN users and make Windows RT-based devices more interesting to organizations. However, the limited number of included third-party VPN clients, the need to use both the Modern and desktop configuration tools to manually set up a VPN, and the need to use PowerShell for application autotrigger configuration may offset any benefits.

A Key Function for Mobile Clients

VPNs enable an organization to create a “private” network on top of exposed networks, such as the Internet and wireless LANs. VPN client software assists users connecting a device to their organization’s private network and ensures data is protected while in transit.

As more workers work remotely, staying connected to an organization’s internal applications and information make easy-to-use VPN software more important. Windows has included built-in VPN software for many versions, but in Windows 8.1 and Windows RT 8.1 (the latest version of Windows for the ARM processor architecture), Microsoft has taken steps to improve usability for third-party VPN software by allowing applications to start a VPN connection and by including third-party VPN client software.