OpenBSD as a VPN Solution
Alex Withers
One of the most pertinent topics in the networking industry today
is Virtual Private Networks, or VPNs. In short, VPNs arose out of
a need for a cheaper method to connect networks and hosts while
still maintaining security and privacy. Many businesses found that
in order to connect their branches they had to invest in expensive
equipment and leased lines. The same went for providing connections
to remote clients; however, in this case the cost went into dedicated
modem lines. While methods like these provided for a relatively
secure solution, they also tended to be expensive on the implementation
and maintenance side. The Internet is an obvious solution to the
cost issue by providing one giant medium for connection at a reasonable
price (at least when compared with the other solutions).
Even though the Internet can be used to get around the cost issue,
we still have to deal with security. It is here that VPNs play a
part by protecting the data transmitted on the Internet. VPNs essentially
form an artificial network on an already existing public network.
The technology can authenticate, encrypt data, and provide a secure
tunnel between two or more points. As a result, VPNs are being used
more often for a cost-effective and secure method to communicate.
Many VPN solutions are emerging on the market today, and many
of these are offered by big name companies.
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