Check Point Remote Access VPN and OpenVPN Access Server compete in the remote connectivity solutions category. Check Point seems to have the upper hand in security and integration capabilities, while OpenVPN is preferred for flexibility and cost-efficiency.
Features: Check Point Remote Access VPN offers integration with existing Check Point security ecosystems, multifactor authentication, and seamless connectivity improvements with advanced firewall integration. OpenVPN Access Server provides ease of deployment across platforms as an open-source solution, emphasizes high customizability, and offers straightforward multi-platform support.
Room for Improvement: Check Point Remote Access VPN could improve by simplifying its deployment process, extending client support for non-Windows platforms, and enhancing automation in client setups. OpenVPN Access Server could benefit from a more intuitive user interface, better scalability options, and improved integration with existing protocols.
Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Check Point Remote Access VPN offers versatile deployment options and good customer support, though it varies regionally. OpenVPN Access Server, while easy to deploy thanks to its open-source nature, relies heavily on community support, which may be a downside for businesses needing swift assistance.
Pricing and ROI: Check Point is considered premium due to its comprehensive features and integration benefits, leading to a positive ROI for those already using Check Point systems. OpenVPN Access Server is more budget-friendly due to its open-source nature, offering substantial value and positive ROI for smaller projects with limited budgets.
It reduces the dependency on being physically present in the office and enhances the overall user experience, saving time and maintaining security.
Contacting the Technical Assistance Centers (TACs) initially can be difficult, but once I get in touch with the TAC team, it is easy to solve problems.
The timing of technical support does not always align with our working hours.
I have not dealt with support or customer service, however, the documentation is good, and I would rate it a seven out of ten.
I would give OpenVPN a six out of ten for scalability, as it's usually a single user or single device.
Deploying these solutions requires higher technical expertise than other solutions.
Check Point Remote Access VPN can be improved by having more granular options to steer traffic, like easier configurations for split tunneling, which is currently complex.
Our key technical supports come during hours that are not aligned with our working hours, which sometimes affects our access to support.
OpenVPN could improve in centralized management.
It is competitively priced, and we have chosen it for its market leadership in the firewall space.
The pricing, setup cost, and licensing are straightforward, though the setup is a bit expensive.
In terms of pricing, Check Point Remote Access VPN is not the most cost-effective option compared to other vendors.
My experience with pricing is excellent as the pricing is free.
The end-to-end endpoint security provided by Check Point Remote Access VPN impacts our organization by ensuring compliance and enhancing security.
The functionality enables secure access for remotely connecting users, which is necessary for our operations.
One of the best features is split tunneling, which allows steering what traffic is sent from the VPN tunnel.
The most valuable features of OpenVPN are its ease of use, client familiarity, end-user familiarity, operating system integration, and price points.
Remote secure access VPN is a solution that provides users with remote access to an organization’s network. The host may have VPN client software loaded or use a web-based client. The solution leverages security features like multi-factor authentication, endpoint scanning, and encryption of all data in motion.
Check Point Remote Access VPN provides individuals with protected and efficient access to a company network from anywhere. This strategy fosters collaboration and connectivity between distributed teams and offices.
Features of Check Point Remote Access VPN
Key features of the secure remote access VPN include:
The system enforces endpoint security with endpoint compliance. It monitors and verifies the security status of each endpoint and reports back to the Security Gateway. The gateway, in turn, checks the compliance level and directs the connectivity to the right resources.
Users can deploy the Remote Access VPN in one of three ways:
Remote Access VPN is centrally managed. The centralized console enables management and enforcement of policies with a single log-in.
The Remote Access VPN has a web portal that users can use to connect securely to corporate applications, such as web-based resources, file-sharing, and email. Administrators can customize the web portal to match the brand identity.
Remote Access VPN offers two choices for remote access:
The authentication features include password management, RADIUS challenge/response, CAPI software, and hardware tokens. P12 certificates, and SecurID.
The system establishes a VPN tunnel on demand. It also re-arranges connections when roaming. The tunnel can automatically tear down when the user is on the corporate LAN.
There are several connection features, such as Hotspot detection, office mode IP, split tunneling, and automatic fallback to HTTPS.
Benefits of Check Point Remote Access VPN
One of the key advantages of Remote Access VPN is that it provides remote workers with a secure way to connect to a corporate network from any device, including their personal devices. The data encryption in transit enables them to securely access the resources they need for their tasks.
It also provides IT support and technicians with a faster way to troubleshoot software issues. In the case of a ticket, IT doesn’t need to go to the server location to fix the problem but can troubleshoot it remotely.
A remote secure access VPN is also an affordable alternative for small and medium-sized businesses, without requiring expensive infrastructure.
Reviews from Real Users
A Global IT Network and Security Service Senior Specialist at a manufacturing company who uses Check Point Remote Access VPN says, "I found the MEP feature the most valuable. This has improved users' latency allowing the users to connect to the nearest Azure Check Point VM."
"Organizations that already use the Check Point NGFW Solution do not require any additional hardware, which makes the implementation straightforward and reduces the time to go live," explains Basil D., Senior Manager at a financial services firm.
Manuel B., a Voice and data infrastructure specialist at a tech services company, says that "The IPSec VPN, Mobile Access, and Identity Awareness are three of the blades with which we have been working with since the pandemic. This has given us great mobility, making our network more dynamic."
OpenVPN Access Server is a comprehensive VPN solution that enables secure remote access and site-to-site connectivity. It uses the open-source OpenVPN protocol with added encryption and authentication for robust security. The web-based admin interface simplifies setup and centralized management of users, devices, and access controls.
OpenVPN Access Server's ease of setup, comprehensive security features, and professional support make it a viable option for businesses looking to facilitate secure remote access and inter-office connectivity. However, potential users should be mindful of the technical requirements for setup and the possibility of network performance issues in specific scenarios.
Based on over 30 independent peer reviews, OpenVPN garners consistently positive feedback for its stability, security, and free open-source licensing. The most common complaints relate to initial setup complexity and occasional connection drops. Despite these drawbacks, most reviewers highly recommend OpenVPN Access Server due to its robust encryption standards, flexible access options, and scalability across organization sizes.
Versatile Installation and Client Support:
User Authentication and Security:
Flexible Access Control and Tunneling Options:
OpenVPN offers professional support for Access Server, with a global team of experts available through an online ticket system. This ensures that users have timely access to assistance when needed.
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