VPNs secure the communications channel between the remote user and the enterprise network. Users are authenticated at the firewall before gaining access to network resources, but once the channel is open, the VPN encrypts all data transferred between the remote user and the enterprise server. Securing the link between remote user and the enterprise starts with authentication of the remote party. The company firewall secures the company network by blocking access to all but the most trusted remote machines. The first step in this process is authentication.
Authentication requires users who seek access to supply a user name and password.
It can pass requests to an identification solution that incorporates security technologies like digital IDs or digital signatures. The physical identity of any individual seeking a digital ID is thoroughly checked by the CA before it s issued. Using a combination of public and private encryption keys, PKI solutions create an encrypted digital ID that can t be hacked or reproduced. If the identity is not confirmed, the connection is broken. At first, only top-level executives were given remote access via a VPN, but with new wireless Internet devices and increased availability of broadband access for remote desktops, remote users will have the ability to access company applications as well.