VIRTUAL PRIVATE NETWORKS

You may have noticed the two links, “Connect Two Office” and “Work From Home”, take you to the “Virtual Private Network” page. This is by design because all three links are the same. The only difference is the application of the technology. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides an economical and global solution for connecting remote users and locations. VPN's use the Internet to connect branch offices, remote employees and business partners to your company's resources.

What do I need to implement a VPN?

For small offices were only Site-to-Site VPN is required, Unique Computing Solutions recommends using Linksys or Netgear VPN routers.

For an office that needs both Site-to-Site and Client VPN, Unique Computing Solutions recommends using a Checkpoint Solutions in conjunction with a Linksys or Netgear VPN routers.

For an office were one or more people need remote access to a single location, Unique Computing Solutions recommends Client VPN using a Checkpoint Solutions.

If the end user is technically savvy and can follow simply instructions, it is possible to do a client VPN using Windows 2000/XP in conjunction with a Linksys Router. This solution is cumbersome but inexpensive.

To implement a VPN each location needs a:

• T1 Line, SDSL, ADSL with static Public IP Address
• VPN capable router and/or a Checkpoint software Firewall at each location

What does it cost to implement a VPN?

Checkpoint is expensive but the technology works and works well. The Client VPN is easy to implement and is easy for the end user. The hardware, software and services for this solution are done by custom quote.

A site to site VPN using Linksys or Netgear VPN routers has a one time cost less than $1,000.00. This includes all the hardware and services for installation. Your reoccurring monthly cost of the T1/DSL line charges are not included in that cost and that cost is determined by your line carrier. Unique Computing Solutions usually proposes a time and material fee not to exceed a $1,000.00.