Virtual Private Networks

A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, is a private network that creates a tunnel between two devices/networks, and data is transmitted securely through this tunnel but on a public shared network.

A VPN is a private network, but uses the public network (Internet) to connect to remote sites. VPN creates a 'virtual' tunnel connection routed through the Internet from the company's or user's trusted network to the remote server, office, or a mobile work force. With VPN, you can send data via the public network which emulates (= electronically simulates) a private link between the two parties or two networks.

A secure VPN encrypts data before passing it through the tunnel to ensure privacy. Data integrity and authenticity are also maintained before the creation of the tunnel. Thus, VPN protects data with privacy, integrity, and authenticity. With VPN, you can provide many services such as the Internet, e-mail, applications, and database services to users in remote locations with secured communication.