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.