Best SSL VPN Solutions

SSL VPNs are safe and secure so long as your browser is protected. An SSL VPN becomes compromised as soon as the browser being used is compromised. However, SSL VPNs are still considered safe because communication happens via an encrypted connection, regardless of what type of device is being used, and no matter if network access is through the public internet or another secure network. Having an SSL VPN also limits access to applications, giving organizations the ability to manage users’ privileges more precisely, which subsequently provides businesses with more control over security.

VPNs preceded SSL VPNs, but SSL VPNs are just as secure and safe as IPsec (Internet Protocol Security) VPNs. SSL VPNs are primarily used for web applications, unlike VPNs which are used for both web and non-web apps. The endpoints for each protocol also differ between VPNs and SSL VPNs; An SSL VPN provides users with access to a specific application or a particular system on the network while a VPN provides full access to an entire network along with all of its applications.

Cyberattackers can gain complete access to a corporate network through a VPN. However, with SSL VPNs, only specific operating systems or applications that the SSL is associated with are compromised if and when a cybercriminal attempts to access exposed networks.

Another major difference between VPNs and SSL VPNs is that an SSL framework makes assigning administrative rights to users (depending on their needs for access or their seniority) easy.

• SSL Portal VPN is a type of SSL VPN that allows one SSL VPN connection at a time to remote websites. After remote users have been authenticated, they can access the SSL VPN gateway via their web browser. This SSN VPN is referred to as a “portal” because only a single web page is necessary in order to access other resources. Generally, users can access this gateway using any web browser and the username and password that are typically provided to them by the VPN gateway service.

• SSL Tunnel VPN: In contrast to an SSL portal VPN, this type of VPN provides access to multiple network services via a web browser through a tunnel. “Tunneling” allows browsers to interact with and actively display content (JavaScript to Flash-based technology), which increases the versatility over an SSL portal VPN.

• Interoperability: With the vast number of client device manufacturers (laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc.) and their operating systems, interoperability is one of the most crucial and advantageous features of an SSL VPN.
• Digital certificates: SSL VPN solutions commonly implement digital certificates to help manage communications access. These certificates add an additional layer of security by using protected passwords.
• Multi-factor authentication: VPN access is only granted with multiple factors of authentication. Once credentials are confirmed and validated, users are given access.
• Integration: Many corporate environments use SSL VPNs to work with an authentication backend via an active directory. Only users that are part of the VPN group are given access by an administrator who is responsible for releasing a certificate for it. When access is no longer needed, the certificate doesn’t have to be revoked. Rather, it can just be removed from the access group, no longer making it possible for users to join.
• Granular control: VPN concentrators can regulate remote users’ VPN traffic. This allows granular access control, allowing one user access to a specific group of servers and another user to have access to certain networks or equipment.

• Easy Implementation: SSL VPNs are simple to implement, especially at an enterprise level, and can be easily configured for web browsing.
• No client software installation: Typically, users do not need to install client software to use an SSL VPN, whereas traditional VPNs require client software to be installed before establishing a connection. By eliminating specific software installations, companies are able to indirectly reduce IT support costs.
• Easy to use: End users are not restricted by the operating system and therefore can choose any web browser they prefer to use.
• Convenient: With an SSL VPN, you can connect to an internal corporate network from anywhere, at any time. With this flexibility, employees can work remotely if desired.
• Default: Another advantage of SSL VPNs is that some browsers already have it as a default.
• Fast implementation: Not only is an SSL VPN able to be implemented quickly, but there is also a minimal learning curve involved.
• Low cost: Because SSL VPNs are cost-efficient, companies find SSL VPN solutions appealing and see them as a worthwhile investment.

SSL VPN enhances remote access security by using encryption to protect data transmitted between your device and the network. This ensures that sensitive information, such as login credentials and confidential documents, remain secure from cyber threats. SSL VPN provides user authentication and access control, allowing you to manage who can access your network and what resources they can use. This added layer of security helps safeguard against unauthorized access and potential breaches.

SSL VPN offers several benefits for businesses, including ease of deployment, cost-effectiveness, and scalability. It facilitates secure remote access for employees, enabling them to connect to the corporate network from any location using only a web browser. This flexibility improves productivity and allows for a smoother work-from-home experience. SSL VPN requires minimal client-side software, reducing maintenance and support costs while providing seamless integration with existing IT infrastructure.

Yes, SSL VPN is designed to be compatible with various devices and operating systems. It supports desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones across platforms like Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. Since SSL VPN typically uses a web-based interface, you can access it through standard web browsers, making it highly versatile and convenient for user access regardless of device type or operating system.

Common challenges of implementing an SSL VPN include network performance issues, configuring and managing user access, and ensuring compliance with security policies. Balancing strong encryption and optimal speed can be tricky, potentially affecting connection speeds for users. Properly segmenting network resources and implementing robust access controls can require significant planning. It is crucial to streamline the user experience while maintaining a high level of security to avoid unnecessary complications during the deployment process.

SSL VPN and IPsec VPN are both popular choices for enabling secure remote access, but they offer different benefits. SSL VPN is generally easier to set up and manage as it can be accessed via a web browser without needing specific client software. This makes it ideal for organizations with a diverse range of user devices. IPsec VPN provides a higher level of security suitable for organizations with more demanding security requirements, but it can be more complex to implement and manage. Choosing between the two depends on your specific security needs and IT resources.