Q: Is there any way to connect securely to my company's network without the expense of a VPN connection?
Nov 23 2010
Answered by: Philip Eide, Dell Ask a question
Yes, Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows 7 Professional allow fast and secure remote connections to the company network to be set up without a VPN tunnel.
With a server in the office you can easily have access to all tools you need from wherever you are. But "on the go" so far it was not easy with having to buy special access software that could enable VPN that gave secure access to the server. Setting up VPN connections is complicated. Now Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows 7 Professional allow fast and secure remote connections to the company network to be set up without a VPN tunnel.
A frequent problem confronting many companies is the remote connection of their mobile users. A common solution in this case is to use VPN (virtual private network) connections. The administration costs to be able to establish the VPN connection via the Internet are, however, considerable since it is usually necessary to install VPN client software on all of the mobile computers.
The new Microsoft operating system Windows Server 2008 R2 provides another option when combined with client computers on which the Windows 7 Professional operating system is running. The DirectAccess function in Windows 7 Professional and Windows Server 2008 R2 allows end users to use client computers to connect directly with the company network and intranet. The company can therefore avoid the complexity that results from setting up a VPN connection, especially with regard to its compliance with relevant security guidelines.
The Windows Server R2 and Windows 7 operating systems also offer another significant advantage if VPN solutions are indeed used: a higher fault tolerance with regard to the connection stability. Many companies establish VPN tunnels between their various offices, i.e., their subsidiaries or branches, via public networks like the Internet. However, the central problem posed by such VPN solutions is that they are prone to connection errors and device failures. In such situations, the VPN tunnel is first closed and must then be re-established. This results in short-term connection failures. A workaround for this issue is provided by the Agile VPN function of Windows Server 2008 R2, with which several network paths can be set up between the end points in one tunnel. This makes it possible to maintain the VPN connection at all times. If a network path fails, another is used automatically.
How Dell can help
Dell helps users to switch to the new Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 operating system, providing a wide range of solutions and services. With just one phone call to Dell we can have a easy discussion on what is important and help you set everything up from start and get everything running. For example, Dell also offers server systems that are fully equipped with drivers, system management features and documentation. Furthermore, Dell has also devised a comprehensive service package, to help users migrate to Microsoft Windows 7 quickly and easily.
Philip Eide, Dell - Small Business Division
More than six years’ experience at Dell helping European small business grow and thrive through a variety of roles within sales and product marketing. To find out more about Dell and how they can help small businesses, click here.
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