Virtual Private Networks (VPN)

Virtual Private Networks (VPN) replace more and more traditional Corporate Networks. Changing communication needs and cost-cutting requirements determine the specifications. VPN provide company-wide communication in a cost-effective way.

Modern technology allows to carry multiple protocols and to serve the respective applications - not only IP traffic as mostly anticipated. Thus VPNs are the state-of-the-art technology for many communication needs.

Generally, any enterprise can take advantage of a VPN service if:

The company has several locations both national or international.
Internal data communication is based on Local Area Networks (LAN), which are connected to a Wide Area Network (WAN).
Mobile users, roamers, small and home offices need to communicate with the corporate environment.
The LAN enables access to centralised data resources and to applications.
Protection against unauthorised intrusion and attacks is mandatory.

Some typical starting situations for introducing a VPN:

Extension of existing network
Introduction of a new Intranet topology
Inclusion of foreign offices or production plants worldwide
Need for mobile access to an existing Intranet
Improvement of qualitative features, such as bandwidth, security, configuration.
Need for increased flexibility and scalability,
Convenient change management according to changing needs in the company''s work flow.

However, in most cases the major driver for a VPN is to cut cost.