A virtual private network (VPN) is a network that uses a public telecommunication infrastructure, such as the Internet, to provide remote offices or individual users with secure access to their organization's network. A virtual private network can be contrasted with an expensive system of owned or leased lines that can only be used by one organization. The goal of a VPN is to provide the organization with the same capabilities, but at a much lower cost.

 

In the past, in order to deploy a wide area network, businesses with more than one branch would need to deploy expensive leased line technology to connect their offices. The VPN however utilises public network such as the Internet whilst providing security and integrity for your data.

The key benefits that VPN technologies provide are:

  • Extend geographic connectivity

  • Reducing operational costs significantly compared to traditional WAN technologies

  • Improve productivity

  • Provide support for home/ remote workers

  • Integrate with existing broadband connections 

They key functions which make VPN technologies secure are the following:

  • Authentication 

  • Access Control for users

  • Confidentiality

  • Data integrity when passing through public network

There are currently two main types of VPN technologies available:

  • Site to site VPNs

  • Client to site (or remote access) VPNs

Site to Site VPNs involve the use of dedicated VPN hardware at each remote site such as routers supporting VPN. Remote access VPNs however, utilise a central site VPN concentrator and a software called VPN client. The client is installed on the users desktop or laptop and enables the user to establish a secure, encrypted tunnel to the office network. The one exception to this is the SSL VPN which can be fully clientless, utilising only the user's web browser to access applications on the organisations network. Remote access VPNs allow users to work securely from any location with an Internet connection. For example, from a hotel room, or even a public WiFi hotspot. Xironet engineers are able to design and implement IPSEC or SSL VPN remote access solutions for your business network.

 

 

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