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VPN - Virtual Private Network
What is a VPN? VPN is a way of connecting two or more points via an encrypted data stream utilising the Internet. This allows multiple offices or remote users to connect into the main company data centre without the need for long distance phone charges or permanent inter-office connections, which are expensive to install and costly to manage and support.
How does it work? The technology is transient in that it only requires the user end software and a connection to the Internet. This software resides either on the remote user's laptop or on a firewall at the remote office. The VPN encrypts the data at the senders end and decrypts the data at the recipients end. The main office creates the encrypted sessions via software sitting on the company firewall. As the remote office / users connect to the company firewall, their connection is queried and a "handshake" ensues. This takes the form of a nine stage authentication process, leading to the production of an 'encrypted secure data tunnel'. IP traffic is then passed over this tunnel in a secure environment between the company and the remote location.
Is it secure? Once a VPN session is established, a secure connection between two private networks over a public medium like the Internet is created. Network traffic is encrypted, typically using a 56-bit key although higher levels of encryption are possible. It is suggested that a dedicated team of hackers would take over a year to break the key.
Why do I need a VPN? As access to data and information becomes more critical for all workers, it is a cost efficient way to allow mobile users, remote users and remote offices to connect to the corporate network.
Why should I use a VPN?
- VPN's are less expensive to operate than private networks from management, bandwidth and capital perspectives
- The payback period for VPN equipment is generally measured in months instead of years
- VPN's enable enterprises to focus on their core business objectives instead of running the corporate network
- A VPN can utilise the most pervasive transport technologies available today:
- The Internet
- Service provider IP backbones
- Frame Relay
- ATM networks
- LAN to LAN connectivity costs are typically reduced by 20-40% over domestic leased-line networks
- Can I run applications over the VPN? The simple answer is YES! However, consideration needs to be given to the type of application, its bandwidth requirements and if some other sort of technology should be used, for example Citrix Metaframe.
- I am a travelling laptop user. How can I use VPN? Client software will need to be installed and configured on your laptop. When operating remotely you simply connect to the Internet anywhere in the world. When your client software is installed, you will most probably have a new icon on your desktop for connecting to your corporate network that will do it all for you!
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