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What are Virtual Private Network (VPN) Solutions?

A virtual private network (VPN) is a service that securely connects an end user directly to a remote private network and its assets. The VPN hides the end user's IP address providing anonymity and privacy. Additionally, VPN connections are secured via encryption, preventing eavesdropping.

A subset of virtual private networks is the SSL VPN (Secure Sockets Layer Virtual Private Network). An SSL VPN provides a secure connection for remote users of applications and services via a web browser, without a need for additional desktop software. SSL VPN solutions can be deployed through appliances which may be used to deploy the VPN server. Standalone virtualized SSL VPN solutions are available, or SSL VPNs may be managed via a firewall.

Virtual Private Networks can serve several purposes for organizations and their employees:

Secure remote connections to, or transfers of, data, communications, etc, such as remote workers using sensitive company data
Accessing region-restricted content, for employees who travel across different regulatory jurisdictions
Providing anonymity when visiting websites and using public networks/WiFi
Integrate with other security products for greater visibility into threats to your network and data

Types of Virtual Private Networks

Virtual Private Network software’s core definition is a service that provides an encrypted tunnel between a main network and an “end user.” There are a variety of VPN setups and protocols, VPNs most commonly work in one of two ways:

Remote Access VPN- a remote access VPN is an encrypted tunnel between an individual using a device, such as a laptop, smartphone, or workstation, to connect to the corporate network. The individual’s device is referred to as the “endpoint” the VPN connects to the main network. This setup is most relevant for securing individual remote workers
Site-to-Site VPN- also referred to as “branch office VPN”, this encrypted connection is between a main corporate network or headquarters and remote branch office networks. The VPN tunnel is established between two VPN network devices, such as VPN routers. This setup is most relevant for organizations that need to securely connect entire office networks with each other.