VPN networks Concept, Types and characteristics

VPN networks Concept, types and characteristics

What are VPN networks? What advantages does it offer us? What protocols does it use, and what are its characteristics? In this article, we will answer all these questions. VPN networks are used as a means of protecting our privacy on the network. If we understand the Internet as a place for the massive exchange of information between many participants, we can immediately see the importance of taking measures to protect our privacy. In the case of public networks, this situation is even more dangerous because anyone could intercept our information. The use of encrypted networks is essential to protect ourselves. Any user should be aware of the importance of protecting their data, but it becomes a necessity in the case of professionals and SMEs.

What is a VPN network?

VPN stands for ‘Virtual Private Network’, which in Spanish translates as a virtual private network. It is a technology that allows it to extend the advantages of local networks or LANs to public networks or the Internet itself. Through VPNs, the computer can send and receive data as if it were a private network. It has all the advantages of these and none of the disadvantages. This is why its use is highly recommended. So iTop VPN networks must fulfil a series of basic functions:

• Verify the identity of the user. VPN networks need to be able to authorize access only to users with the appropriate privileges reliably.
• Encrypt the data. Using different protocols, the data is encrypted to prevent it from being leaked. Different algorithms make this functionality possible.
• Manage keys. VPN networks are responsible for keeping updated the passwords that users must have and use to verify themselves and allow access.

It is becoming more and more popular among users as certain companies’ treatment of our information is discovered. For businesses, it is a means of preventing file leaks from occurring. Both freelancers and employees can have sensitive files on their devices. They can also connect to our telecommuting platform from unsecured sites, which is why VPN networks are necessary in the business world.

Characteristic

VPN networks have a series of security features. The main one would be to allow a verification and authentication system for the identity of users and equipment. Also, it allows you to check that the files have been sent and received without any problem and have not been modified. Thanks to the encryption of the data, confidentiality and privacy are obtained, as well as an electronic signature that guarantees to know the origin of the messages and being able to prove it if necessary. So VPN Google Chrome extension will allow users access only to the data they have the appropriate authorization. Finally, it offers an activity log that increases automation and the quality we store our information.

Types of VPN networks

There are different types of VPN networks according to the architecture with which they are formed. At the same time, there are also different possibilities to establish the connection of these networks:

• Connection via router:  This VPN connection is made through a router that connects to the private network. This system establishes a kind of filter through which the files must go through a verification between the connected routers.
• Remote access. In this type of connection, there is direct authentication between the server and the user. The user connects to the VPN network directly through their devices.
• Firewall connection:  It is done by connecting a firewall to the private network. Any user can send information but must pass a check between the outgoing and incoming firewall.
• Mobile Devices:  Used when a unique IP address does not exist. Its use is widespread among public services such as health systems or security forces. In the business world, they are becoming increasingly fashionable because they offer the security of traditional connection types but with greater mobility without disconnection problems.