Table of Contents:

Definition and Overview

1. Introduction

2. Benefits of ISP–Based Private Networks

3. Traditional WAN Network Architecture

4. Encryption-Based VPNs

5. Private Networking Using Frame-Relay PVCs

Self-Test

Glossary

PDF of this tutorial

Definition
Private networking involves securely transmitting corporate data across multiple sites throughout an entire enterprise. Creating a truly private corporate network generally requires an intranet. A virtual private network (VPN) is one means of accomplishing such an implementation using the public Internet.

Overview
This tutorial explores the benefits of a private corporate network and reviews a traditional wide-area network (WAN) architecture implementation. It then compares the WAN model to present-day private-networking strategies, specifically examining two types of modern private-network implementations: encryption-based VPNs and private networks based on frame-relay permanent virtual circuits (PVCs). It also reviews important security issues associated with the different technologies used to implement a private network.