> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://wiki.zacheller.dev/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://wiki.zacheller.dev/network-security/courses/isci-cnss-course/virtual-private-networks-vpn/introduction-to-vpn.md). # Introduction to VPN Instead of using a dedicated connection, a VPN uses virtual connections routed through the Internet from the remote site or user to the private network. Security is accomplished by encrypting all the transmissions. A VPN allows a remote user to have network access just as if were local to the private network. Because most organisations have many employees traveling and working from home, remote network access has become an important security concern. Users want access, and administrators want security. The VPN is the current standard for providing both. Many larger organisations have offices in various locations. Achieving reliable and secure site-to-site connectivity for such organisations is an important issue. The various branch offices must be connected to the central corporate network through tunnels that transport traffic over the Internet. Using VPN technology for site-to-site connectivity enables a branch office with multiple links to move away from an expensive, dedicated data line and to simply utilize existing Internet connections. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://wiki.zacheller.dev/network-security/courses/isci-cnss-course/virtual-private-networks-vpn/introduction-to-vpn.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.