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VPN – Virtual Private Network, is a networking concept that extends a private network or an intranet across a public network like the internet. Most organizations usually use VPN to securely connect into their company’s private network remotely. Example is that when an employee is located overseas not within his company’s premises, he can then use a VPN to securely access his company’s private network.
VPN is actually a form of Wide Area Network as it supplies a network connectivity over long distances. But the main distinction of a VPN to WAN is that VPN uses public network like the internet rather than rely on private leased lines.
The Pros
- VPN can save an organization money like eliminating the need for expensive long-distance leased lines and offloading support costs.
- When an organization grows, its private network grows as well. Without using an internet base VPN, the cost of its network scalability widens
Limitations
- Internet base VPNs are not free and they require monthly subscriptions.
- The quality of connection speed relies on the ISP and not under the organization’s control.
- Security is also considered to be crucial whenever using public networks. Always study and research your VPN provider before subscribing.
Source: The Telco Spot