Virtual Private Network or VPN allows users to establish a secure, private connection or tunnel between two points.  The communication between these two points is encrypted to ensure privacy and security.  This is particularly important during this COVID-19 Stay-At-Home Order.  VPN is enabling many people to keep working during this time.

VPN is typically required when the information or programs you are trying to access are stored on a computer or server in your office.  In these situations, a VPN connection is typically made from a person’s remote device to a firewall in your office.  If you have a large number of people trying to connect remotely, we may recommend separating your Internet security functions (firewall) from remote access (VPN) functions by using a dedicated VPN appliance.  The remote worker will launch a VPN program to initiate the secure connection and authenticate their identity, preferably with multi-factor authentication.

Once you’ve established a secure VPN connection to your office, the magic begins.  You can access files on your server directly or you could remote control your office computer, and it would be as if you are actually sitting at your desk.  How great is that?

VPN is a great solution for working remotely but it can also be used to secure your activities when working on a public network.  So, when we’re able to relax in Starbucks and access their public Wi‑Fi again, you could consider adding VPN to your web browsing and more.  Whether you are working from home now or relaxing in Starbucks, with VPN you can see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Contact IT Radix and let us help you increase security while work remotely!

 
First published in our May 2020 IT Radix Resource newsletter