What Is A VPN?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a private data network using the Internet or another shared/public network.

The technology allows us to use an Internet connection to create a full WAN (Wide Area Network) solution that will also give flexible remote access for a mobile workforce or home workers.

Because private or confidential information could travel across an unsecured public network, we use strong encryption techniques to protect the data in transit. The information is only decoded when it reaches its destination, and this requires the necessary hardware or software to be in place at each end.

A P&C Communications VPN solution is tailored to meet individual clients’ requirements, but typical features and benefits include:

Remote Connectivity

A remote workforce can be given the freedom to access network resources on a corporate network using VPN client software installed upon their PC.

This can be done through any Internet connection allowing workers to work from home using dialup or broadband internet, or have access whilst on the road from a laptop or even a PDA from Internet access points in places such as hotels and trains.

High Levels of Security

All P&C Communications VPN solutions are secured using recognised industry standards of encryption to a minimum of triple DES (3DES). In addition, we can install solutions including extra security features such as clients with personal firewalls, industry standard authentication techniques (including PKI and smartcard / hardware token integration) and ‘Tunnel Guard’ features to test the integrity of connections.

Manageability

Where required P&C Communications can provide full management, monitoring and maintenance services to a VPN solution – allowing for rapid identification, troubleshooting & resolution any networking issues.

Cost Saving

VPN solutions can provide fast and secure connectivity can be achieved without the high costs for annual rental and call charges associated with leased line or ISDN solutions.

For more information on the kind of VPN solutions P&C Communications have installed, please look at the case studies section.