Netgear FVS318v3 User Manual download pdf (Page 161)

Virtual Private Networking C-1

January 2005

Appendix C

Virtual Private Networking

There have been many improvements in the Internet including Quality of Service, network

performance, and inexpensive technologies, such as DSL. But one of the most important advances

has been in Virtual Private Networking (VPN) Internet Protocol security (IPSec). IPSec is one of

the most complete, secure, and commercially available, standards-based protocols developed for

transporting data.

What is a VPN?

A VPN is a shared network where private data is segmented from other traffic so that only the

intended recipient has access. The term VPN was originally used to describe a secure connection

over the Internet. Today, however, VPN is also used to describe private networks, such as Frame

Relay, Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), and Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS).

A key aspect of data security is that the data flowing across the network is protected by encryption

technologies. Private networks lack data security; so data attackers can tap directly into the

network and read the data. IPSec-based VPNs use encryption to provide data security, which

increases the network’s resistance to data tampering or theft.

IPSec-based VPNs can be created over any type of IP network, including the Internet, Frame

Relay, ATM, and MPLS, but only the Internet is ubiquitous and inexpensive.

VPNs are traditionally used for:

• Intranets: Intranets connect an organization’s locations. These locations range from the

headquarters offices, to branch offices, to a remote employee’s home. Often this connectivity

is used for e-mail and for sharing applications and files. While Frame Relay, ATM, and MPLS

accomplish these tasks, the shortcomings of each limits connectivity. The cost of connecting

home users is also very expensive compared to Internet-access technologies, such as DSL or

cable. Because of this, organizations are moving their networks to the Internet, which is

inexpensive, and using IPSec to create these networks.

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Netgear FVS318v3 User Manual Page 161