Entrust SSL VPN Certificates Streamline Security - Benefits of SSL VPN
(Page 2 of 4 )
So far we've touched on how SSL VPNs are similar to IPsec, which is a protocol suite used for securing Internet protocol (IP) communications through the authentication and encryption of each IP packet of a data stream. It performs a function similar to an SSL VPN, but as we will soon learn, using SSL VPNs has major perks that IPsec VPNs do not.
In this economy, the cost of a service is always at the forefront. SSL VPNs are usually less costly to deploy than IPsec VPNs because with clientless SSL VPNs, there is no cost for owning client software licenses, no administrative fees involving the installation of client software, and much less time is spent on client technical support because the software is so easy to use. And time, as we all know, is money.
Another advantage of SSL VPNs is that they allow companies to create user-identity-based access policies that offer network access to employees, partners, and customers based on their identity and work profile. SSL also uses TCP port 443, which is usually only accessed through the firewall and helps remote users. SSL works through firewalls without any special configuration and IPsec, on the other hand, uses specific UDP ports, which are blocked by the firewall if they are not in immediate use.
SSL VPNs also provide a major security advantage. When access is restricted to specific applications, the chances of unauthorized access is greatly reduced. A more recent advantage concerning SSL VPN technology is browser data protection. After a user logs off, this particular feature eliminates sensitive information that may have been used during the course of a session.
This newer feature is exceptionally useful as it removes any cached user credentials and temporary spooled or cached files. Some SSL VPNs can even be configured to prevent a user from creating copies of a company's classified information on a non-work related computer.
Next: Entrust's Streamlined SSL VPN Certificate Deployment >>
More Opinions Articles
More By Joe Eitel
