A site-to-site pattern is a system where different networks are linked together using one tunnel. In this type of connection model, devices in one network can connect to devices in the other network. This form of VPN keeps data encrypted between two sites without needing clients’ apps or credentials on devices using it. Several organizations have multiple physical sites, and each one owns a local area network (LAN). Although separated geographically, these various sites require one corporate wide-area-network (WAN) to achieve secured cross-site communication. A site-to-site VPN offers this by establishing an encrypted link between the VPN gateways located on these sites. It encrypts the traffic at one end and sends it over to the other site via the public Internet, where it will be decrypted and routed to its landing place.
How Do VPNs Work?
Imagine trying to access data; you will have to relate with the remote server that protects it using your desktop. From the perspective of your desktop, it is within the local gateway, while from the server’s perspective, it is another gateway known as a remote gateway. During the period you are trying to get across to the server, the data packet from your desktop will be routed to the local gateway, part of the overall VPN networking plan. Immediately, the local gateway recognizes the destination IP as part of the remotely protected network, and it will commence a VPN tunnel between both gateways. In addition, the gateways exchange keys which implies that this tunnel is a secure one. The remote gateway then decrypts your data packet and shares it with the server. This process takes place reversely once the server acknowledges the client’s request.
When Should I Use Site To Site VPN
Sites to site VPNs are primarily beneficial to sites with no extensive traffic. It can be used as a backup for connections if the primary connection goes out. You can check here for a site-to-site VPN: https://nordlayer.com/site-to-site-vpn/.
Why You Need Site To Site VPN
The site to site VPNs are essential for the following reasons,
Cost-Efficient
A site-to-site VPN will not intrude on your business’ finance because it allows you to use existing network infrastructure.
Security
A site-to-site VPN creates a secure connection between two networks, making it a perfect choice for enterprises that want to connect several company offices. This is also helpful for individuals who wish to enhance the security of their home network.
Simplified Network Architecture.
Companies with a complex network structure can use a site-to-site VPN to simplify it because traffic among several local area networks can be routed via the VPN. In addition, it makes it easy for users to access the company’s resources from any location.
Ease of Operations
If a VPN is complex, it will result in frustration instead of convenience. Users should be able to access the VPN via a web browser freely. However, this should not leave room for slackness in security practices, and extra security should be put in place if users need to take an extra step to access the VPN. With a VPN, network administration can be made more accessible. You will be able to control and manage remote locations from the central office and secure absolute authority over the entire network.
Business Continuity
In a situation of an attack, a site-to-site VPN allows you to take advantage of remote access immediately if an emergency has been identified. For instance, if an office is attacked, workers don’t have to cease the entire production process. Instead, they can be granted access to the site-to-site VPN, connect to the company’s resources at headquarters, and work remotely. Hence you reduce the financial repercussions of a disaster with the VPN.
How To Set Up Site To Site VPN
To set up a site-to-site VPN, follow the steps below:
Be sure that your virtual routers, Ethernet interfaces, and zones are appropriately configured. Create your tunnel interfaces-Perfectly and put the tunnel interfaces in separate zones so that different policies can be used by tunneled traffic Assign routing protocols or set up static routes to redirect traffic to VPN tunnels. To support unique routing (BGP, OSPF, and RIP are supported), you should assign an IP address to the tunnel interface. Define IKE gateways for creating communication between the sites across the end of each VPN tunnel; the cryptographic profile should also specify the algorithms and protocols for authentication, identification, and encryption for setting up VPN tunnels in IKEv1 Phase 1. Configure the parameters needed to set up the IPSec connection to transfer data across the VPN tunnel; Define security policies to inspect and filter the traffic.
