A method of configuring a network element such that a Virtual Private Network (VPN) site can connect to the network element is disclosed. An interface on a Provider Edge (PE) router is configured in restricted mode. A request is received from the interface to authenticate a user associated with a VPN requesting to connect to the interface. A determination is made as to whether the user is authorized to submit requests to the interface. If the user is authorized, an activation request is received from the interface to allow the VPN can connect to the interface. A determination is made as to whether the user is authorized to connect to the interface via the VPN. If the user is authorized, VPN site parameters are configured at the PE router and the PE router is configured in unrestricted mode.