VPN Information

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a connection between two PCs in different networks that allows private data to be sent securely over a shared or public network, such as the Internet. This establishes a private network that can send data securely between these two locations. Most routers, such as the diagram on the right, do not have this option.

vpn workflow

An example of a VPN Router-to-VPN Router VPN, would be as follows. At home, a telecommuter uses his Cable/DSL VPN Router for his always-on Internet connection. His router is configured with his office's VPN settings. When he connects to his office's router, the two routers create a VPN tunnel, encrypting and decrypting data. Since VPNs utilize the Internet, distance is not a factor. Using the VPN, the telecommuter now has a secure connection to the central office's network, as if he were physically connected.

vpn diagram

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