The basic architecture for all remote access is a connection from a central site through a network to a remote site. This may include direct-dial and VPN, which are not mutually exclusive. These two complementary technologies can help maximize remote access capabilities, while minimizing the underlying costs. A secure VPN integrates strong authentication, powerful encryption, firewalling, VPN tunneling, compliance with standards, secure remote access, IP routing and scaleability and redundancy. These elements combined render a cost-effective solution and provide robust security, user transparency and data accessibility.
Encryption is essential to a secure remote access or VPN solution.
Powerful encryption methods such as DES, Triple-DES and 3DES offered by VPN vendors should be sought after when considering a VPN solution for remote access. The optimal choice for remote access is combination of both direct-dial and VPN technologies. This combination will work to best serve the needs of each remote user, while minimizing the cost to the corporation. As the advantages of teleworking become more apparent to enterprises of all sizes, the demand for value-added resellers with specialized expertise will rise. VARs will have the opportunity to provide a full range of related products and services that will enhance and extend their clients' corporate networks.