VPN (Virtual Private Network)

What is a VPN in simple words

VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology that creates an encrypted connection between your device and a remote server over public communication channels, such as the Internet. In simple terms, it is like a secret tunnel through which your data travels safely, protected from prying eyes.

Imagine that you are sending a letter by regular mail. Anyone can intercept it along the way and read it. But if you send the letter in a sealed envelope that only the recipient can open, your letter is protected. VPN works on the same principle: it encrypts your data, turning it into unreadable code that only the holder of the key can decrypt.

The main task of a VPN is to ensure the confidentiality, integrity and authenticity of transmitted data, protecting it from interception and unauthorized access. The technology is widely used to organize remote access for employees to internal corporate resources, to protect data on public Wi-Fi networks and to bypass geographical restrictions.

VPN is an important element of public key infrastructure (PKI) and is often used for secure interaction between SOC and SIEM components. Modern corporate security is unthinkable without a VPN, especially in the context of the massive transition to remote work.

Types and protocols of VPN

Depending on the usage scenario, VPN comes in two main types:

• Remote Access VPN: Used to connect individual devices (laptops, smartphones) to the corporate network. This is the most common scenario for remote employees working from home or while traveling.
• Site-to-Site VPN: Used to connect entire networks to each other. For example, to unite company offices in different cities or to connect branches to the head office.

The main VPN protocols that make the technology work:

• IPsec (Internet Protocol Security): The most common protocol that provides encryption and authentication at the level of IP packets. It is used in most corporate VPN solutions.
• OpenVPN: An open protocol that uses SSL/TLS for encryption. It is considered one of the safest and most flexible protocols.
• WireGuard: A modern, fast and secure protocol that is becoming increasingly popular thanks to its simplicity of setup and high performance.
• L2TP/IPsec: A combination of the L2TP (for tunneling) and IPsec (for encryption) protocols. Often used on mobile devices.

When building a VPN for government systems, it is necessary to use certified CIPF that meet the requirements of the FSB of Russia. This guarantees that the encryption algorithms used comply with Russian security standards.

VPN and regulatory requirements

VPN helps to comply with the requirements of Federal Law 152-FZ on personal data when transmitting over open channels. The law requires personal data to be protected during transmission, and VPN provides this protection through encryption.

VPN solutions also help to fulfill the requirements of Federal Law 187-FZ when organizing secure channels between segments of critical information infrastructure facilities. For critical information infrastructure, the use of a VPN with certified CIPF is a mandatory requirement.

The "Fintech" company provides a full range of VPN implementation work: from design to installation and technical support. This includes choosing a suitable protocol, configuring servers and clients, integrating with existing infrastructure and training staff.

When choosing a VPN solution, it is important to consider not only current needs but also business development prospects. For example, if you plan to increase the number of remote employees, it is worth choosing a solution that scales easily. Read more about VPN solutions in the technologies section.