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Too many clicks to launch Microsoft VPN under Windows 11

Bill Klicker 21 Reputation points
2023-06-30T14:43:18.4566667+00:00

A few years ago, I created a custom Windows VPN client install using the Connection Manager Administration Kit. This generates an installable copy (*.exe) of our VPN configuration which I deploy to our PC's when they are built. Running the installation creates the VPN profile in Windows and offers the option to create a desktop shortcut with a custom icon. I'm not sure if CMAK is relevant to my question, but just offering it as it may be related.

Under Windows 10, to launch the VPN client you can either use the desktop shortcut, which launches the VPN login screen directly, or click the wireless icon in the system tray and select VPN which appears above listed WiFi connections. Clicking VPN here launches the normal VPN login screen. Under Windows 10 getting to the VPN login took at most 2 clicks. I have two issues under Windows 11:

  1. Since upgrading to Windows 11, the desktop shortcut no longer works. Instead of launching the VPN client, WiFi settings slide up from the system tray, then disappear after a few seconds.
  2. Using the second method described above works, but it now takes 5 clicks just to get to the VPN login screen. Under Win11, you click the wireless icon in the system tray (1), Select VPN from the top of the list (2), select the VPN connection (3), click Connect (4) which takes you to the Windows Settings / Network & Internet > VPN screen, click connect (5) which launches the normal VPN login screen. Entering my credentials and clicking connect logs me in as it did before.
Windows 10
Windows 10
A Microsoft operating system that runs on personal computers and tablets.
12,017 questions
Windows Network
Windows Network
Windows: A family of Microsoft operating systems that run across personal computers, tablets, laptops, phones, internet of things devices, self-contained mixed reality headsets, large collaboration screens, and other devices.Network: A group of devices that communicate either wirelessly or via a physical connection.
810 questions
Windows 11
Windows 11
A Microsoft operating system designed for productivity, creativity, and ease of use.
10,596 questions

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  1. Bahduh surong 10 Reputation points
    2023-06-30T14:51:43.42+00:00

    This is my first time that I could lock-in with Microsoft as hom often times I was tried to lock-in but not responding

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