SSL VPN
Definition
An SSL VPN (Secure Sockets Layer Virtual Private Network) is a streamlined VPN technology that utilizes SSL or TLS protocols to facilitate remote access.
SSL VPN employs mechanisms such as certificate-based identity authentication, data encryption, and message integrity checks that are inherent to SSL, ensuring secure connections for communication at the application layer. Most web browsers natively support SSL, which means users don't need to install extra client software to use SSL VPN. When a mobile user connects to the internal network's SSL VPN server, they can use devices like laptops, tablets, or smartphones to remotely access network resources including web servers, file servers, and mail servers.
How SSL VPN Work
When a mobile user needs to access an internal network server, an encrypted connection, known as an SSL VPN tunnel, is established between the user's device and the SSL VPN server. This tunnel uses the standard SSL protocol to secure the transmission of data packets.
The process begins when the mobile user visits the SSL VPN server's login page, where the server authenticates the user's identity. The SSL VPN server typically supports a variety of authentication methods to ensure secure access. Once the user is authenticated, the SSL VPN server routes data packets to the designated internal server, enabling the user to access the resources allocated by the network administrator on the enterprise intranet.
With SSL VPN, users can fulfill all their remote access needs via a web browser alone.
Why Choose SSL VPN
When employees need to access company resources remotely—either while traveling for business or working from home—they require a secure method to connect over the Internet. Ensuring the safety of these resources involves multiple user authentication techniques and detailed access control measures. Two prevalent methods for achieving secure remote access are IPsec VPN and SSL VPN.
SSL VPN stands out as a lightweight VPN technology that offers higher security compared to IPsec VPN. It provides more precise control over resources and better user isolation. Employees can access SSL VPN simply by logging in through a web browser, eliminating the need for additional client software. This ease of use has made SSL VPN a favored option among employees in enterprises and agencies.
Operating between the transport layer and the application layer, SSL VPN does not modify IP or TCP packet headers, which means it does not interfere with the existing network setup. The absence of a requirement for client software makes SSL VPN straightforward to deploy, configure, and maintain. Moreover, it is a cost-effective solution.
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SSL VPN
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IPsec VPN
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Security
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SSL VPN uses the SSL/TLS protocol to establish secure connections for communication between application layers. SSL VPN provides powerful access control functions, including URL-and file-based access control, greatly improving the security level of enterprise remote access.
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IPsec secures service data transmission on the network by leveraging encryption and authentication, such as data origin authentication, data encryption, data integrity, and anti-replay.
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Ease of use
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SSL VPN uses the B/S architecture, requiring no client. It allows you to use a common browser for easy access.
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IPsec VPN requires remote users to install specific client software on their terminals, leading to difficult network deployment and maintenance.
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Costs
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No additional client software is required. Multiple types of terminals can use web browsers to securely and quickly access enterprise intranet resources. The configuration procedure is simple for administrators, and users can use a browser for access.
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Poor compatibility of client software results in complex network deployment and maintenance as well as high management costs.
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