Virtual Private Network 

VPN is a cost effective and secure way for different corporations to provide user access to the corporate network and for remote networks to communicate with each other across the Internet. Secure VPN are more cost-effective than dedicated private lines. VPN involves two parts: the protected or "inside" network, and the less secure "outside" network. Generally, a firewall sits between a remote user's workstation and the host network. As the user's client establishes the communication with the firewall, the client passes authentication data to the authentication service to gain access to the network.

A well designed VPN can provide great benefits for an organization such as:

• extend geographic connectivity
• improve security where the data lines have not been ciphered
• reduce operational costs verses traditional WAN
• reduce transit time and transportation costs for the remote users
• provide global networking opportunities
• provide telecommuter support
• provide broadband networking compatibility
• provide faster return on investment than traditional carrier leased/owned WAN lines

However, since VPN's extend the network by such an extent (almost every employee) and with such ease, there are certain security implications that must receive special attention. Security on the client side must be tightened and enforced, lest security be lost at any of a multitude of machines and devices. It is common for a company to require that each employee wishing to use their VPN outside company offices (eg, from home) first install an approved firewall. A single breach or failure can result in the privacy and security of the network being compromised. If a company or individual has legal obligations to keep information confidential, there may be legal or criminal problems as a result. The most important part of a VPN solution is security. The very nature of VPN's raises concerns about potential threats to the data and the impact of data loss. A VPN must address all types of security threats by requiring authentication. Authentication is the process of ensuring that a user or system is who they claim to be. There are many types of authentification mechanisms, but all use one of more of the following approaches:

• something you know (eg. login name, password, PIN)
• something you have (eg. computer readable token or key card)
• something you are (eg. fingerprint, retinal pattern, hand configuration)

Authentication using two or more methods is preferred.

If you are interested in getting more information about a Virtual Private Network, please click the "Contact Us" tab.