VPN Technologies Overview

VPN Technologies Overview

Virtual Private Network Basics

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) create encrypted tunnels over public networks, enabling secure remote access to corporate resources. VPNs protect data confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity while traversing untrusted networks.

VPN Technology

VPN Types and Protocols

Common VPN types include remote access VPNs for individual users, site-to-site VPNs for connecting offices, and SSL VPNs for clientless browser-based access. Protocols include IPSec for robust security, SSL/TLS for flexibility, and WireGuard for modern performance.

Encryption and Security

VPNs employ strong encryption algorithms like AES-256, authentication mechanisms including certificates and pre-shared keys, and key exchange protocols such as IKEv2 and Diffie-Hellman to ensure secure communications.

VPN Architecture

VPN deployments can use dedicated hardware appliances, virtual appliances in cloud or on-premises environments, or software clients on endpoints. Architecture choices impact performance, scalability, and management complexity.

Modern Alternatives

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and Software-Defined Perimeter (SDP) solutions provide modern alternatives to traditional VPNs, offering granular access controls, improved user experience, and better cloud application support.

    • Related Articles

    • SSL VPN vs IPSec VPN

      IPSec VPN Technology IPSec VPN operates at the network layer (Layer 3) providing comprehensive security for all IP traffic. It offers robust encryption, strong authentication, and complete protocol support but requires client software and can face ...

    • Network Deception Technologies

      Deception Technology Overview Network deception deploys decoy systems, data, and credentials detecting attackers through interaction with fake assets. Deception provides high-fidelity alerts as legitimate users don't access decoys, reducing false ...

    • Remote Access VPN Solutions

      Remote Access VPN Requirements Remote access VPNs enable employees to securely access corporate resources from any location. Modern solutions must support diverse devices, provide seamless user experience, enforce security policies, and scale to ...

    • Site-to-Site VPN Setup

      Site-to-Site VPN Planning Site-to-site VPNs securely connect multiple office locations over the internet, creating a unified private network. Proper planning includes bandwidth assessment, redundancy requirements, routing design, and security policy ...

    • Zero Trust Network Access

      Zero Trust Principles Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) operates on the principle of 'never trust, always verify.' Unlike VPNs that grant broad network access, ZTNA provides application-level access based on identity, device posture, and context, ...