21-06-2013, 04:34 PM
Virtual Private Networks: Leveraging the Internet
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INTRODUCTION
Proponents say virtual private
networks could be the wave of
the networking future for one
very important reason: VPNs
transmit data via the Internet,
rather than via expensive traditional private
networks.
Proponents are quick to mention the
significant cost savings organizations can
realize by using networks that employ
the Internet backbone as a data pipeline
rather than networks that rely on leased
lines, frame-relay technology, and dialup
connections for private WANs.
However, as with many Internet technologies,
potential VPN users are concerned
about possible security, reliability,
and performance problems. In addition,
a lack of open standards has created
concerns about compatibility. The industry
is working toward adoption of such
standards, but it remains to be seen
whether this will lend credibility to VPN
technology.
ADVANTAGES
VPNs offer several advantages over traditional
private networks. Barry Voltz,
information systems manager with Omron
Electronics, cites the significant cost savings
provided by the company’s VPN.
Voltz also said the service has provided
enhanced flexibility and convenience.
Flexibility and convenience
VPNs can be more flexible and convenient
than traditional networks in their
ability to permit remote entry to any
authorized user with Internet access.
VPNs also may eventually let business
partners access networked resources via
the Internet, thus providing the required
backbone for strong business alliances.
This can be difficult with traditional private
networks, because organizations
that want to share networked resources
may have incompatible systems. This is a
particular problem when many organizations,
such as a large retailer and its
suppliers, want to work together across
a network.
Reliability and performance
Because VPNs use the Internet, they
can incur reliability and performance
problems due to congestion, dropped
packets, and other factors. This could
cause problems for real-time applications,
such as telephony and videoconferencing.
Standards
The lack of open standards is a significant barrier to the widespread
use of VPNs. Without standards, many users might not
invest in VPN technology out of concern that they might buy
products that could quickly become obsolete and unsupported,
said Jim Balderstone, an analyst with Zona Research, a market
research firm. In light of this, the industry is moving rapidly
toward developing open standards.