Site to Site VPN and Remote VPN

VPN refers to virtual private network, a network that can be accessed from anywhere and the user does not need to be physically present at the network's location (such as the company) to be able to use the network. The only thing the user requires is the access to the Internet.

VPN is able to provide secure communication channel between the user and the network and provides security procedures such as encryption and through tunneling protocols. One of the main reasons why many companies choose to have VPN implemented into their network is because VPNs reduce costs as they replace the need of using dedicated leased lines between networks and instead use existing infrastructures such as the Internet to connect networks and adds a layer of security. There are 2 types of VPN. They are Remote-access VPN and Site-to-site VPN.

Remote-access VPN

This type of VPN allows users to connect to a remote network such as salesmen connecting to their company's network from wherever they are.

Site-to-Site VPN

This VPN allows the inter-connection of networks of multiple users. This mean that for example, branch offices can connect to the main company's network. This helps to facilitate a smooth business operation between the branch offices and main office.