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

Merging with IPSec VPN and Firewall Technology


There are two somewhat divergent approaches that SSL VPN vendors seem to be taking towards advancing their products, both of which are already in motion. Consideration should be given to these trends when selecting a vendor, as it is wise to ensure that your own strategic goal for SSL implementation (in addition to any tactical solution), is in sync with the aims of the vendor whose product you want to use. It is critical that technology be able to properly address changing and growing needs.

One potential future direction of SSL VPN may be the convergence of SSL VPN, Network Firewall, and IPSec VPN technology. IPSec has been merged with network firewall technology since its inception. SSL VPN began as an independent technology, but several observations in the current marketplace offer insight that a merger may ultimately occur:

  1. 1. In 2003-04, some SSL VPN vendors began to include network-type connectivity (as discussed in other sections of this...