VPN
A Virtual Private Network is a closed, logical network that is built as a virtual structure and not with separate hardware. VPNs are mainly used for secure data connections.
Definition
Many different types of networks are used as VPNs. However, they all have in common that they are subnetworks in a larger network accessible only to specific user groups. Typically, these are encrypted connections for which users must authenticate themselves. Publicly available transmission networks such as the Internet are always used to establish VPNs. A private network is created, which can only be accessed by a limited number of people. Compared to real networks, VPN is very flexible.
Types of VPN
There are very many different types of VPNs. However, the following versions are mainly distinguished:
Site-to-site VPN
In a site-to-site VPN, multiple local networks are interlinked. Unlike the traditional dedicated line, which establishes a physical connection between the two networks, an Internet connection is used for site-to-site VPNs. This can save the high costs of a dedicated line. It gives the local networks of a company with several branches or establishments a way to communicate with each other.
End-to-site VPN
An end-to-site VPN connects a single client outside a network to a corporate network. Here again, a public Internet connection is used to dial into the company network. This kind of VPN is used for people working from home or mobile field staff who connect to the company network remotely from their home or from the customer base. They can then use it as if they were located at the company premises.
End-to-end VPN
An end-to-end VPN connects two clients together. One client is located within a network, while the other is outside of it. This type of VPN allows direct access to a server on the network. However, to create such a VPN tunnel, VPN software is required on both Clients but the connection is not established directly. Instead, it goes through a gateway to which both clients connect. The gateway then ensures that the two established connection points are interconnected and direct communication can take place.
Mobile VPN
A Mobile VPN is a special type of VPN that provides an uninterrupted connection for mobile devices such as Smartphones or Tablets. This type of VPN allows a data exchange between wireless and wired networks without interruption.
Advantages of VPN
Users benefit from a VPN with the following advantages:
- Cost savings by dispensing with a physical dedicated line
- High availability due to good network coverage
- Higher monitoring security
- Encrypted data transfer
- Easy to use
In addition to these benefits, VPNs also have the great advantage that they can be used without great effort. All that is required is a corresponding client to establish secure connections.
Relevance to search engine optimization
In Online Marketing, a significant proportion of employees do telework. Secure and fast connections, which are available and flexibly usable from anywhere, provide the basis for efficient collaboration. A lot of data, including text, designs, or program codes has to be able to be transferred quickly and securely. With a VPN, data security can be increased. At the same time, VPN offers the option to securely access a server remotely. For example, SEOs or system administrators can make important settings on servers or the Backend without having to be on site. They can log into the company network remotely.
SEOs often use VPN connections to disguise their own IP address, especially for black hat methods. For example, the use of VPN connections to prevent Google from discovering link networks based on the IP addresses used.
One practical use of a VPN client is to bypass GEO IP locks. These locks are often used by authoritarian states who want to prevent their citizens from accessing websites in other countries. Bypassing IP locks can be useful in SEO work when, for example, certain functions that are only available in a specific country needs to be tested.