Solution to the message:
"This connection requires an active Internet connection"
Since using Vista, I occasionally had a problem when trying to connect to a network using VPN. Vista simply did not think I had an active Internet connection – when in fact I did. I resolved this a while back for myself. I have since noticed a few other posts on the Internet now that suggest opening the Network Connections dialog and connecting from there; or to create a shortcut to that connection.
Another better option (in my opinion) that has resolved this permanently for me is to simply change the order of the network connections and make your physical network connection the first in the list. To do this:
- Open the Control Panel from the Start menu.
- Click Network and Internet.
- Click on the Network and Sharing Center.
- Click Manage network connections.
- If the menu bar containing the Advanced menu option is not visible then Click Organize > Layout > Menu Bar to enable the menu bar.
- Click Advanced > Advanced Settings.
- Select the Adapters and Bindings tab.
- In the Connections list, re-sequence the list of connections so that your primary method of connecting is first.
- Click OK to save.
I have sequenced my network adapters in the following order starting with my physical network LAN adapter and then my wireless as shown here:
Note: You may need to exit and re-open the Connect to a network dialog before the connection becomes enabled.
Another option is the open your Network Connections and then right-click on the connection you wish to use and select the Connect menu option. This works, but requires that you work around the problem each time having to navigate through the dialogs, or to create a shortcut link. I find this less desirable, but it should work if necessary.