Selecting a Virtual Private Network will require careful consideration for a business because VPNs are not all the same. In addition, the company will be relying on its data encryption capability as well as its efficiency 24/7.

VPN Overview

A VPN allows the creation of a secure connection between two devices. A temporary bridge is built to make a connection between two computers by using special protocols.
The data moving back and forth along the bridge will be encrypted.
The recipient’s address will be viewable so data is deliverable, but the message content is totally concealed when it is transmitted on the VPN. Companies also utilize VPNs to connect servers situated in various locations to provide staff members secure and easy access to data and devices. The ability to connect mobile devices to servers will greatly increase the productivity and efficiency of a company’s mobile employees.

Network Protocol

Prior to setting up a Virtual Private Network, the company’s IT staff must choose the kind of network protocol. The following are the four for consideration.

Secure Socket Layer (SSL)

Secure Socket Layer should be familiar for anyone who does online banking or shopping because it is the encryption that both use. For small businesses, SSL will make the most sense because the VPN is configured through an internet browser.

Open VPN

For businesses that are very budget-conscious, this type of VPN based on open source SSL code may be its only option. However, security is nonexistent because the code can be viewed and taken advantage of by hackers.

Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP)

PPTP is the most up-to-date type of VPN, and it is supported by Windows, Mac OS X and mobile systems natively. As a result, it is the best for the new era of BYOD and WYOD.

Internet Protocol Security (IPsec) and Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP)

Both IPsec and L2TP offer more security than PPTP. However, they are more complicated for companies to configure as their VPN.

Alpha Engineering Business Support

Choosing an expert computer technology-support provider is an important decision for your business. Alpha Engineering Associates has been a trusted partner of many companies in the Washington, Baltimore and Annapolis areas since 1990 and offer:

• 24/7 Managed Services for Business Computing Systems
• Network and Mobile Computing Support
• Disaster Recovery Planning
• Software Development

For affordable client-focused network consulting services and solutions, please call Alpha Engineering Associates today at 410-295-9500.