VPN – virtual private network

VPN is a network that is constructed by using public wires — usually the Internet — to connect to a private network, such as a company's internal network.  There are a number of systems that enable you to create networks using the Internet as the medium for transporting data. These systems use encryption and other security mechanisms to ensure that only authorized users can access the network and that the data cannot be intercepted.

Consumer VPN Services

Consumers use a private VPN service, also known as a VPN tunnel, to protect their online activity and identity. By using an anonymous VPN service, a user's Internet traffic and data remain encrypted, which prevents eavesdroppers from sniffing Internet activity.  A VPN service is especially useful when accessing public Wi-Fi hotspots because the public wireless services might not be secure. In addition to public Wi-Fi security, a private VPN service also provides consumers with uncensored Internet access and can help prevent data theft and unblock websites.

Corporate VPN Communications

Companies and organizations will use a VPN to communicate confidentially over a public network and to send voice, video or data. It is also an excellent option for remote workers and organizations with global offices and partners to share data in a private manner.

One of the most common types of VPNs used by businesses is called a virtual private dial-up network (VPDN). A VPDN is a user-to-LAN connection, where remote users need to connect to the company LAN. Another type of VPN is commonly called a site-to-site VPN. Here the company would invest in dedicated hardware to connect multiple sites to their LAN though a public network, usually the Internet.

What Is a Mesh Network?

In computer networking, a mesh is one kind of network topology.

Types of Mesh Networks

Mesh networking has become increasingly popular in recent years with the growth of Wi-Fi and outdoor wireless networks. Although mesh networks can also be built using cables, it is more cost effective and easier to scale a mesh using wireless connection technologies. Several different categories of mesh networks exist including:

• community networks - connecting neighborhoods for more efficient sharing of network bandwidth and better social interaction
• municipal networks - infrastructure for law enforcement and protected sharing of local government services
• ad-hoc wireless networks - connections created "on-the-fly" among a small number of devices, often for file sharing between friends away from home

Mesh Network Basic Technologies

Beside the protocols and applications used in standard wired and wireless networking, several technologies have been created specifically for the purpose of mesh networking:

• 802.11s, a standard being developed for ad-hoc Wi-Fi meshes
• home automation network protocols like INSTEON, Z-Wave, and ZigBee
• spanning trees, algorithms for managing data flow on traditional mesh networks

Building Mesh Networks

Many mesh networks use wireless routers installed at fixed locations to cover a building or specific outdoor area. Ad hoc meshes do not require access points but instead utilize the network protocol support of computer operating systems. Wired meshes utilize additional cables between wired routers.