Remote Access & VPNs

Focus: Secure connectivity and practical use of virtual networks.

Key Notes

• VPN (Virtual Private Network):
  • Creates an encrypted tunnel between the user’s device and a private network.
  • Masks IP address → secures data → allows access to internal systems remotely.
  • Used by remote employees, IT admins, and even students connecting to school resources.

How It Works (Step-by-Step)

1. You connect to the Internet.
2. VPN client encrypts your data and sends it through a secure tunnel.
3. VPN server decrypts the data and forwards it to the destination.
4. Response data travels back through the same secure tunnel.

Why It Matters

• Protects against data interception on public Wi-Fi.
• Allows remote work from any location.
• Enables access to region-restricted or internal company servers.

Command-Level Notes (Certification Reference)

• VPN uses protocols such as IPSec, SSL, and L2TP.
• VPN concentrators manage multiple secure sessions simultaneously.

Discussion Prompts

• How would a VPN change the risk level of working from home on public Wi-Fi?
• What are the limits of VPN protection (what it can’t hide)?