Using MS XP SP2 Firewall and a Cisco VPN Client

[Guest]

I would like to explore using the Windows XP Firewall while I have a vpn
connection established (using Cisco's VPN Client [v3.6/4.1]) to my place of
work.

While the Windows firewall is active I am able to establish the vpn
connection however I cannot access any resources on my private network (my
intranet at work). I do not even get dns resolution. My solution now is to
disable the Microsoft firewall while my vpn connection to work is active.

Surely this is nothing out of the ordinary. Is there a simple solution?

 

[Guest]

Are you sure that the blocking of your local network isn't part of your VPN
solution? We use Cisco vpn clients at my work and when I use it at home, it
blocks all local network access. If you think about it, it makes sense. The
whole purpose of VPN is to provide a secure channel between your pc and your
works private network. How private of a network would it be if you were able
to vpn in, and all the while have your pc, as well as your local network,
have access to your works private network. Does disabling the Windows
firewall fix your problem? I can't imagine the firewall being the issue
because you are initiatinog the connection from your PC. Also, the Cisco vpn
client has a Stateful firewall option under the advanced mode menu. Disable
that.