Billion Electric Company BiGuard 10 User Manual

 

 

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E.1    What is a VPN? 
 

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a shared network where private data is 
segmented from other traffic so that only the intended recipient has access. It 
allows organizations to securely transmit data over a public medium like the 
Internet. VPNs utilize tunnels, which allow data to be safely delivered to the 
intended recipient. 
 
Because private networks lack data security, IPSec-based VPNs employ encryption 
technologies that protect a private network from data theft or tampering. These 
private networks can be implemented over any type of IP network, which allows for 
excellent flexibility. 
 

 
VPNs are traditionally used three ways: 
 
- Extranets: Extranets are secure connections between two or more organizations. 
IPSec-based VPNs are ideal for extranet connections, as they can be quickly and 
inexpensively installed. Extranets are often used to securely share a company’s 
information with suppliers, vendors, customers, or other businesses. 
 
- Intranets: Intranets are private networks that connect an organization’s locations 
together. These locations range from a headquarter, to branch offices, to a remote 
employee’s home. Intranets are often used for email and for sharing applications 
and files. A firewall protects Intranets from unauthorized access. 
 
- Remote Access: Remote access enables mobile workers to access email and 
business applications. Remote access VPNs greatly reduce expenses by enabling 
mobile workers to dial a local Internet connection and then set up a secure 
IPSec-based VPN communications to their organization. 

 
E.2  What is IPSec?