Chapter 14. Remote Access Service (RAS) and Virtual Private Networking (VPN)

In the enterprise workplace, we are seeing much more attention on extending the flexibility of corporate computer services. For the network architect, this means that the services offered must allow for greater capabilities, including providing solutions for a distributed network. Architects must design networks that allow users to work from any location in an effective and secure manner. This task is even more challenging due to the cost cutting that most organizations are faced with. All of these challenges result in a mandate for the architect to design and deploy a fully designed, tested , and effectively managed remote solution.

This chapter details the basics of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), and describes how to configure ProLiant servers to provide this level of service by providing step-by-step examples and a case study of the remote access implementation for employees at HP. This case study shows how you can leverage other services such as the Active Directory for User Management; Certificate Services for standards-based, two-factor authentication; and the VPN concentrator with the combination of Windows Server 2003 and ProLiant servers. Additionally, the design must take into consideration what types of remote clients will be supported and how many other services can leverage these same services. The ultimate design goal is to base as many services on the same effort as possible and reduce the amount of redundant effort.