Remote Network Access
Remote network access is basically the ability to log-on a network form a distant location. Virtual private network (VPN) provides a low-cost, secure, and versatile way of accessing remote networks. It is an extension of a private network that includes links across the public and shared networks e.g. Internet. By using a VPN, the data can be sent across a public network, almost similar as a point-to-point private link because all the communication took place by making an encrypted tunnel through the public network.
In an organisation, VPN can be used as follows:
To connect the remote clients to the organisation’s intranet. The figure below explains the concept:
- To connect remote LANs together e.g. two remote branches of a company as shown in the figure below:
- To secure a certain cluster of the network from unauthorised access by using a VPN server as a gateway to that cluster. This VPN server will only allow the access to those users who have proper access permissions. The figure below explains the concept :
Benefits of Using VPN over Leased Line:
When comparing to leased line, VPN provides the following key benefits to the organisation.
- It is cost effective solution for site to site connection of remote branches.
- It eliminates the scalability problems for an organisation and allows for a fully functional remote access work force, as long as they have a connection to internet. This optimises the performance of the employees.
- VPN provides a way to secure communications on the Internet.
- The maintenance cost of VPN servers tends to be less than other approaches.
