Book Image

SSL VPN : Understanding, evaluating and planning secure, web-based remote access

Book Image

SSL VPN : Understanding, evaluating and planning secure, web-based remote access

Overview of this book

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) provide remote workers with secure access to their company network via the internet by encrypting all data sent between the company network and the user?s machine (the client). Before SSL VPN this typically required the client machine to have special software installed, or at least be specially configured for the purpose. Clientless SSL VPNs avoid the need for client machines to be specially configured. Any computer with a Web browser can access SSL VPN systems. This has several benefits: Low admin costs, no remote configuration Users can safely access the company network from any machine, be that a public workstation, a palmtop or mobile phone By pass ISP restrictions on custom VPNs by using standard technologies SSL VPN is usually provided by a hardware appliance that forms part of the company network. These appliances act as gateways, providing internal services such as file shares, email servers, and applications in a web based format encrypted using SSL. Existing players and new entrants, such as Nokia, Netilla, Symantec, Whale Communications, and NetScreen technologies, are rushing our SSL VPN products to meet growing demand. This book provides a detailed technical and business introduction to SSL VPN. It explains how SSL VPN devices work along with their benefits and pitfalls. As well as covering SSL VPN technologies, the book also looks at how to authenticate and educate users ? a vital element in ensuring that the security of remote locations is not compromised. The book also looks at strategies for making legacy applications accessible via the SSL VPN.
Table of Contents (14 chapters)
SSL VPN
Credits
About the Authors
Introduction
A Review of TCP, IP, and Ports

AEP Systems


www.aepsystems.com

Company Information

AEP Systems Inc.

100 Hamilton Ave

Palo Alto, CA 94301

Toll Free: 1.800.383.7716

Tel: (+1) 650.326.6748

Fax: (+1) 650.326.6806

Product Information

Appliances:

  • A-Gate AG-50 (small companies)

  • A-Gate AG-60 (small to mid-size companies)

  • A-Gate AG-600 (small to mid-size companies)

  • A-Gate AG-1200 (mid-size to large companies)

Note

On December 22, 2004, AEP Systems announced a merger with Netilla Networks (mentioned later in this chapter). As of the printing of this book, however, both SSL VPN product lines are still being marketed.