Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Virtual Private Networks are used for secure data communications from one location to another utilizing the public Internet as the medium. Virtual Private Networks (VPN) can be used for secure data communications for traveling users, branch/remote offices or business partner communications.

Full Firewall / VPN Diagram

Virtual Private Networks use encryption/decryption to secure the data while traveling over a public network (Internet). If the data is captured while in transit the encryption provides extreme difficulty in reading this data. Thus making the data captured virtually useless.

Virtual Private Networks can be accomplished by three basic methods: Hardware, Software, and SSL VPN.

Hardware - Virtual Private Networks also provide basic levels of access to the VPN network. Most Hardware VPN devices provide a basic Level 2 firewall to block unwanted intruders from breaking the network while also performing the VPN encryption functionality. Hardware devices are much easier/faster to use and support.

Software - Virtual Private Networks that utilize software to perform the encryption is ideal for single PCs or Home users. The more sophisticated software programs also protect the PC similar to a firewall (Check Point Secure Client). Other software providers just provide VPN encryption but do not protect the PC.

SSL VPNs- Clientless VPN remote access (NO SOFTWARE NEEDED). This solution solves three major issues currently faced with all other VPNs: 1) Maintain Security, 2) Cost Effective and 3) Easy to Use. Generally, security, cost effective, and ease of use would not be found in the same context when discussing VPN’s. Nokia Secure Access Server (.pdf link) offers and delivers all three.

Choosing the correct Virtual Private Network is a very complex process. This process is very much determined on budget, firewall and network complexities. VPNs are extremely difficult to install and manage with any type of reliability, security and flexibility built into the design. While most VPN vendors claim this is an easy process our years of experience have proven otherwise. We have built many secure and stable VPNs for our customers.

For a free assessment of your VPN needs please contact us for more information.

VPN Vendors