What is a VPN?

VPN stands for virtual private network.
A VPN creates a secure connection over a network that is not secure, such as the Internet.
A VPN enables remote users and branch offices to securely communicate with enterprise applications and resources by sending data through secure “tunnels” and by requiring secure authentication for users accessing the VPN.

As the enterprise workforce becomes more mobile, the virtual private network or VPN has become an effective and cost-efficient way for remote workers and offices to securely communicate with the corporate network. But what is a VPN exactly, and what are its benefits over other security measures? Here is a short introduction to “What is a VPN?” that provides some answers.

A VPN, or virtual private network, securely connects remote offices and workers and enables them to transmit sensitive data and share resources over an unsecure medium like the Internet.

What is a VPN designed to do?

A VPN enables organizations to avoid the expense of extending private networks using leased lines or MPLS circuits to all branches and locations, and to securely and cost-effectively transmit data over the Internet.

What is VPN encryption?

A VPN provides an easy way to encrypt data packets before they are passed over a public network. A VPN transmits encrypted data wrapped with a header that contains routing information. Consequently, data can travel securely over a public network or the Internet to reach its endpoint.

What is a VPN’s greatest advantage?

The biggest benefit of a VPN is the cost-effective way in which it adds security to the corporate network and enterprise communications. With a VPN, organizations can share sensitive data while avoiding the high cost of leasing private lines between offices and branch locations.

What is a VPN’s biggest risks?

A VPN cannot provide 100 percent security. A VPN connection may be hijacked by an unauthorized user who takes over a connection from a remote client. Weak authentication, malware and DNS leaks can all contribute to a less-than-secure VPN connection.

What is a VPN managed services solution?

A managed VPN solution allows organizations to outsource the implementation, management, support and security for a VPN, helping to improve performance and ensure security while enabling in-house IT teams to focus on other priorities.

What is a VPN solution from Spectrum Enterprise?

As a leading provider of fiber solutions to businesses in a broad range of industries, Spectrum Enterprise offers an IP VPN and a managed IP VPN solution that can help to safely connect remote users and offices in multiple locations.