VPN Solutions
August 18, 2007
At work I stress constantly the need to use our virtual private network (VPN) when using a public wireless access points. Anybody who has turned on Ethereal while on a public Wifi understands why. A VPN simply is a secure encrypted tunnel through an untrusted network (the internet). This means if someone on that public wireless access point attempts to sniff traffic, all they will see is an unreadable series of letters and numbers.
But what do you do if you don’t have access to a corporate VPN? A quick Google search found a bunch of solutions both paid and free.
OpenVPN is a free VPN that works for Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. It’s a pretty simple download, and very easy to install. It’s is a very mature open source project, so there’s plenty of documentation, but don’t expect to ever talk to a live voice for support. Another solution is HotSpotVPN. This program cost over $100 per year and provides the same benefits of OpenVPN. HotspotVPN not only supports Windows, Macs and Linux. They also provide support for iPhones, Nokia N770 and N800, Pocket PC, and Palms Devices. Not sure if it’s worth the $100 price tag, but if you require more support this might be the solution for you.
For more information on how VPNs works check out this article.
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