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Thread ID: 71600 2006-08-10 08:12:00 VPN/Telecom Hotspots Eyeore (10957) Press F1
Post ID Timestamp Content User
477581 2006-08-10 08:12:00 I am using XP fully updated on a laptop and the built in VPN client.
I can hook up to a Telecom Hotspot but can't connect to my workplace using a VPN (I can do this through a Telecom broadband connection from home).
I have tried lowering the MTU size but haven't had any joy.
Telecom are somewhat less than helpful "our Hotspots aren't really set up for people to use VPNs". Given that Telecom is currently allowing broadband users to connect to their HotSpots FREE UNTIL DECEMBER 31st I find this a strange way of encouraging people to use their services.
Any bright ideas?
BTW - if you want to use a Hotspot you use your primary Xtra login and pwd in the format username.xadsl@xtra.co.nz (won't work without the .xadsl).
Cheers
Eyeore (10957)
477582 2006-08-10 08:49:00 Does it give an error message? Xtra may have blocked connections to PPTP servers but other than that's the only thing I can think of off the top of my head. TGoddard (7263)
477583 2006-08-10 18:50:00 That may well be. I am getting error 800 which basically relates to not being able to find/access PPTP server. This laptop has connected to the same vpn from overseas as well as from local networks so I guess Xtra has something to do with it. Eyeore (10957)
477584 2006-08-10 22:17:00 Just to check, you have used your browser to log in before starting the VPN, haven't you? TGoddard (7263)
477585 2006-08-11 09:37:00 All logged in, can browse, can ping my vpn server but can't connect to it. I have a network at home using Xtra as ISP and I can log into the vpn in a few seconds. I have also logged in from UK using tMobile/BT hotspots and I am sure my configurations are ok. I have dropped the MTU size as this sometimes causes problems on default settings. I might have to go find an unsecured network somewhere else and test before I moan at Telecom again..... Eyeore (10957)
477586 2006-08-12 03:28:00 All logged in, can browse, can ping my vpn server but can't connect to it. I have a network at home using Xtra as ISP and I can log into the vpn in a few seconds. I have also logged in from UK using tMobile/BT hotspots and I am sure my configurations are ok. I have dropped the MTU size as this sometimes causes problems on default settings. I might have to go find an unsecured network somewhere else and test before I moan at Telecom again.....

This is where openvpn is your best friend.
ughnz (8297)
477587 2006-08-13 05:51:00 Openvpn looks interesting however my preference is to use bog standard Windoze stuff on XP. The only vpn issue I have is not being able to at a TNZ hotspot so I presume TNZ may be filtering traffic..... Eyeore (10957)
477588 2006-08-13 22:26:00 OpenVPN is great but is not so useful when you want to connect to an established PPTP network. Ask Telecom why they blocked it. The more pressure, the more likely restrictions will be lifted. TGoddard (7263)
477589 2006-08-17 00:45:00 Thanks everyone. I have found someone at Xtra who stated "you can't use a vpn at a hotspot". A bit more questioning elicited the technical answer "they are not setup for vpns". A second call on a different shift elicited the same basic answers. So I guess that, even though the hotspots are charged on a time basis rather than data throughput, Telecom don't want this part of the market. Eyeore (10957)
477590 2006-08-17 01:50:00 Hi Guys - poor old Telecom!

www.telecom.co.nz/wirelesshotspot - website actually recommends using a VPN, and gives a help No that seems different to Xtra's usual No.

QUOTE...
Please note: Telecom's wireless hotspot service can't offer guaranteed protection against viruses, the interception or misuse of your data or other harmful occurrences. We strongly recommend you protect your computing device through methods such as a firewall and anti-virus software, and use Virtual Private Network software when connecting to your office network.

AND...
If your laptop is working but you are still having problems logging in,
call us 0800 952 695 for assistance

Regards, Martnz
martnz (271)
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