How to Make a Server Not Use VPN as a Default Gateway

When it comes to setting up a server, there may be instances where you don't want it to use a VPN as the default gateway. Whether it's for security reasons or to optimize network performance, changing the default gateway can be a useful configuration. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of making a server not use VPN as a default gateway.

Why Change the Default Gateway?

Before we dive into the steps, let's understand why you might want to change the default gateway on your server. By default, when a server connects to a VPN, it uses the VPN's gateway to route all its traffic. While this can be beneficial in certain scenarios, there are situations where you may prefer to keep the server's original default gateway.

One common reason is to maintain local network access. When a server is connected to a VPN, it often loses access to devices and resources on its own local network. By not using the VPN as the default gateway, you can ensure that the server can still communicate with other devices on the local network.

Another reason is to optimize network performance. VPNs can introduce additional latency and overhead, which may not be desirable for certain applications or services running on the server. By bypassing the VPN as the default gateway, you can reduce the network overhead and potentially improve performance.

Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let's walk through the steps to make a server not use VPN as the default gateway. Please note that the exact steps may vary depending on your server's operating system and VPN client.

Step 1: Identify the VPN Connection

The first step is to identify the VPN connection that you want to modify. Most operating systems provide a graphical user interface (GUI) to manage network connections, making it easier to identify the VPN connection.

For example, in Windows, you can navigate to the "Network and Sharing Center" and click on "Change adapter settings" to view all network connections. Look for the VPN connection and make a note of its name or label.

Step 2: Access Network Settings

Next, you'll need to access the network settings on your server. Again, the process may vary depending on the operating system you're using.

In Windows, you can access the network settings by right-clicking on the network icon in the system tray and selecting "Open Network & Internet settings." Alternatively, you can navigate through the Control Panel to find the network settings.

Step 3: Modify the VPN Connection Properties

Once you're in the network settings, locate the VPN connection you identified in Step 1. Right-click on the VPN connection and select "Properties" or a similar option.

In the VPN connection properties, look for an option related to the default gateway. This option may be labeled as "Use default gateway on remote network" or something similar. By default, this option is usually enabled, indicating that the VPN is used as the default gateway.

Uncheck or disable the option to make the necessary change. This will ensure that the server doesn't use the VPN as the default gateway.

Step 4: Save and Apply Changes

After modifying the VPN connection properties, save the changes and apply them. In some cases, you may need to restart the VPN connection or the server for the changes to take effect.

Once the changes are applied, the server should no longer use the VPN as the default gateway. It will continue to use its original default gateway, allowing for local network access and potentially improving network performance.

Changing the default gateway on a server to not use VPN can be a straightforward process, but it's essential to understand the implications and reasons behind it. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your server maintains local network access and potentially optimize network performance.

References