SSL VPN

In today's business world, it is very common to see employees checking their e-mail or logging onto the company's intranet from home, cafe, hotel, or even on the road. Traditionally, companies have responded to their remote access requirements by extending their IPSec (Internet Protocol Security) VPNs. However, the costs associated with this technology are prohibitive. The next generation of VPN service is employing SSL (Secure Socket Layer), therefore the common term is SSL VPN. SSL VPN is gaining popularity because it is less expensive, and easier to deploy. SSL VPN technology provides remote access to Web applications such as email and corporate intranets.

If you would like to find out whether SSL VPN is suitable for your company, please contact our Houston office, or you can use the Contact Us form to get in touch with our consultant.

What is SSL VPN?

SSL VPN (Secure Sockets Layer Virtual Private Networking) is a form of VPN that can be used with a standard Web browser. In contrast to the traditional IPSec VPN, an SSL VPN does not require the installation of specialized client software on end users' computers. SSL VPN products are also referred to as "SSL remote access" and "instant virtual extranets". Users can make a secure connection from any laptop or desktop PC with a browser. This ability is unique because SSL firewalls are generally kept open, eliminating the need to reconfigure them to provide access.

Benefits

The biggest reward for using SSL VPN is cost savings. Why? SSL VPN is easy to deploy, easy to maintain, and easy to use. Secondly, SSL VPN is clientless access, therefore it will eliminate installation problems which translates to fewer IT resources needed. SSL VPN will also eliminate network interoperability issues and reduce changes in firewall.

Drawback

Many people believe that SSL VPN is less secure that IPSec VPN (the most common security protocol for dial-up and broadband remote access). IPSec software is is installed on employees' computers, and creates a full network connection, while SSL VPN is referred to as an "application layer" technology. The fact is, with regard to security, if you drill down to the details of IPSec and SSL VPN, they are much the same, just implemented differently. Therefore, the technology itself is as secure as IPSec VPN,. However, because of the way it is deployed, SSL VPN can be less secure.

Is It Secure?

The answer is "Depends on how you implement it." We can also implement more security measures such as two-factor authentication and/or one-time password. Please contact our Houston office if you have any questions regarding SSL VPN, or you can use the Contact Us form to get in touch with our consultant.

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