Remote Access VPN

A Remote Access VPN is a VPN service that enables remote users to securely access private network resources (through encrypted tunnels from remote locations).

• AKA: Client VPN, Remote User VPN, Client-to-Site VPN.
• Context:
  • It can authenticate Remote User through user credentials and multi-factor authentication.
  • It can establish Secure Connection via vpn client software and tunneling protocols.
  • It can enforce Access Control through user permissions and security policy.
  • It can protect Data Transfer via traffic encryption and secure routing.
  • It can maintain Session Management through connection monitoring and timeout control.
  • ...
  • It can often provide Client Software for endpoint devices and operating systems.
  • It can often enable Split Tunneling through traffic routing and policy configuration.
  • It can often support Device Management via endpoint security and compliance checks.
  • It can often include User Portal for credential management and connection status.
  • ...
  • It can range from being a Basic Remote VPN to being an Enterprise Remote VPN, depending on its security features.
  • It can range from being a Single-Platform VPN to being a Multi-Platform VPN, depending on its client support.
  • It can range from being a Standard Authentication VPN to being an Advanced Authentication VPN, depending on its authentication methods.
  • ...
  • It can integrate with Directory Services for user authentication.
  • It can connect to Security Gateways for traffic protection.
  • It can support Monitoring Systems for usage tracking.
  • It can work with Compliance Systems for security audits.
  • ...
• Examples:
  • Enterprise Remote VPNs, such as:
    • Cisco AnyConnect (2025) with posture assessment and always-on vpn.
    • Pulse Secure (2025) with zero trust integration and mobile support.
    • Fortinet FortiClient (2025) with endpoint control and web filtering.
  • Consumer Remote VPNs, such as:
    • ExpressVPN (2025) with lightway protocol and kill switch.
    • NordVPN (2025) with double encryption and auto-connect.
    • ProtonVPN (2025) with secure core and netshield.
  • ...
• Counter-Examples:
  • Site-to-Site VPN, which connects networks rather than remote users.
  • SSL Portal, which provides web-based access without full network integration.
  • Remote Desktop Service, which enables screen sharing without network-level access.
• See: VPN Service, Remote Access System, Network Security Gateway, Authentication Service, Endpoint Security System.

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