In order to make a VPN connection, an external user must connect to a VPN Server. Where does that VPN Server typically reside? Answer ... on your trusted network with the rest of your systems and information.

"Direct Access Risk" - Any service providing direct access to an organization's systems from an untrusted source like the Internet MUST be considered as a hazard or risk which weakens security.

This "Direct Access Risk" equally applies to other services on an organization's trusted network such as:

	Email
	Files and Folders
	Business Intelligence Reports
	Voice Over IP (VOIP)
	Desktops (e.g. RDP, VNC)
	Websites

Providing VPN services for authorized remote users is great way to access private resources but directly affects the complexity of the network security policy implemented. VPN services can often be implemented incorrectly where remote users become a direct member of the trusted network with unrestricted access to that network. Additional technical information can be found at:

	Virtual Private Networks
	iWebGate Bridging Services
	Virtual Network Zoning

Like any other network service, it would be a brave call stating that a VPN service is 100% secure. Should the VPN server be compromised, the attacker could immediately find themselves with direct, unhindered access to all the available resources on your trusted network.

We have many customers stating they were "fed up" with their virtual private network (VPN) services from a functional perspective. Our clients reported:

Frequent VPN Problems:
	Could not connect when using low bandwidth connections (e.g. satellite connections, intercontinental delays)
	VPN connections were slow and/or frequently dropped out
	VPN services required complex management by IT personnel

iWebGate's Ghost Network Platform resolve these issues with a new remote access solution. Our customers now report :
	Fast, reliable connections. iWebGate's remote connection capabilities work better in situations where VPN struggles (e.g. intercontinental delays, satellite connections)
	An extremely affordable solution (e.g. no per user licensing for SMEs) which is
	Very easy to use and packed with additional value (i.e. iWebGate provides much more than just remote access)
	Delight with a superior way to remotely login to the office plus connect to any computer located in disparate networks
	A whole set of tools for their training, support and cloud technology capabilities