What does it mean to add Virtual Private Network capability to my office?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides secured, transparent access between your office and the ISU campus over the Internet. When using a local ISP, a VPN ensures that mail service, file sharing, networked printers and your current local area network configuration can remain unchanged. A VPN also allows EIT computer support staff remote access to computers to troubleshoot and resolve problems. A Virtual Private Network can be established with software from an individual PC. However, when considering an entire office, a hardware-based VPN solution will serve your purposes much better. A hardware solution will provide a transparent connectivity to ISU without requiring additional programs on workstations. Extension IT will provide VPN capability for a $75/month fee, which covers the cost of equipment and maintenance. Note that T1-connected offices have direct, private connections and therefore do not require VPN.
