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What is a VPN (Virtual Private Network)?

A VPN  means Virtual Private Network enables the connection of a private network across a public network. VPN programming ensures a safe and encrypted connection across the public internet which is mostly less secure. A Virtual Private Network implements tunneling protocols for the encryption and decryption of the data at the sending end and the receiving end respectively. In short, a VPN network safeguards your online data from snoopers, hackers, cyber thieves along with maintaining unrestricted access to spam and blocked websites and services. VPN technology was originally developed to enable the access of corporate applications and resources to remote employees and branch offices.

Virtual private network - video tutorial

How Virtual private network or VPN Works

When your computer or any similar device is connected to the VPN, the device acts as if it is on the same local network as the VPN. A VPN routes your device’s (PC, Tablet, Laptop, etc.) internet connection through your private VPN server instead of your internet service provider (ISP). This means the data transmitted to the internet comes from the VPN and not from your computer. When you browse something on the internet, the VPN acts as an intermediate as you establish a connection with internet. This hides your computer’s IP address thereby protecting your identity from malicious attackers. For example, if you browse Netflix through the UK based VPN connection, Netflix will see your connection coming from the United Kingdom.

Basic Functions of a private VPN network:

  1. ·         Secure Your Device
  2. ·         Provide Accessibility to Websites and Apps
  3. ·         Enables Anonymous Browsing
  4. ·         Avoid Throttling

Types of VPN

There are two types of VPN provided by network administrators.

1.    Remote Access VPN 

Remote access VPN is popular among homes and small businesses. This VPN service type uses an application that forms an encrypted connection to the private network. You can then use this connection to connect the internet on a large scale. 

Large software companies install corporate VPN or remote-access VPN for remote-working employees. This system enables the employees to securely access all the company’s data irrespective of their place of working simply using a password. Corporate VPN need personalized development and large IT resources. 

2.      Site- to – Site VPN 

also called as Router-to-Router VPN and is mostly used in the corporates. In this VPN type one router acts as a VPN Client and another router as a VPN Server. 

When multiple offices of the same company are connected using Site-to-Site VPN type, it is called as Intranet based VPN.

When companies use Site-to-site VPN type to connect to the office of another company, it is called as Extranet based VPN. 

 

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