Vpn(virtual private network)
DEFINITION
A virtual private network (VPN) is a network that is constructed using public wires — usually the Internet — to connect remote users or regional offices to a company's private, internal network.
FEATURES And design objectives
To be workable, VPN features should be secure, user-friendly and flexible enough to traverse the cloud for a variety of platforms.
Key design objectives when selecting VPN features must include the following:
• Secure remote access for users anywhere, anytime.
• Easy setup, configuration, use and maintenance.
• Affordability for widespread corporate use.
• Ease of use: There should be no obvious performance problems, no major usage hoops to jump through, no "gotchas" or other downsides to regular frequent use.
Advantages
- Enhanced security. When you connect to the network through a VPN, the data is kept secured and encrypted. In this way, the information is away from the hackers’ eyes.
- Remote control. In case of a company, the great advantage of having a VPN is that the information can be accessed remotely even from home or from any other place. That’s why a VPN can increase productivity within a company.
- Share files. A VPN service can be used if you have a group that needs to share data for an extended period.
- Online anonymity. Through a VPN you can browse the web in complete anonymity. Compared to hide IP software or web proxies, the advantage of a VPN service is that it allows you to access both web applications and websites in complete anonymity.
- Unblock websites & bypass filters. VPNs are great for accessing blocked websites or for bypassing Internet filters. This is why there is an increased number of VPN services used in countries where Internet censorship is applied.
- Change IP address. If you need an IP address from another country, then a VPN can provide you this.
- Better performance. Bandwidth and efficiency of the network can generally be increased once a VPN solution is implemented.
- Reduce costs. Once a VPN network is created, the maintenance cost is very low. More than that, if you opt for a service provider, the network setup and surveillance is no more a concern.
