Cirkuit Planet MH-1000 User Manual

Multi-Homing Security Gateway User’s Manual 

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 headquarters, 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. 

 

Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) is a set of protocols and algorithms that provide data authentication, 

integrity, and confidentiality as data is transferred across IP networks. IPSec provides data security at the 

IP packet level, and protects against possible security risks by protecting data. IPSec is widely used to 

establish VPNs. 

 

There are three major functions of IPSec: 

- Confidentiality: Conceals data through encryption. 

- Integrity: Ensures that contents did not change in transit. 

- Authentication: Verifies that packets received are actually from the claimed sender. 

 

 

 

 

 

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