VPN gateway definition
A VPN gateway is a networking device that connects other devices and networks into a single VPN infrastructure. A VPN gateway can be a server, a firewall, or most commonly, a router. It can be used to establish communication between remote offices, connect two networks or devices together, and even combine multiple VPNs together into a single network.
A VPN gateway device must have internet working and data transmission functions. It can be configured to allow, block, or reroute VPN traffic. VPN gateways provide networking services that are specific to VPNs, like assigning and managing IP addresses or static and dynamic routing of routing tables and their maintenance.
See also: VPN firewall, VPNaaS, VPN hardware
How does a VPN gateway work?
A VPN gateway works by accepting a connection request from a user, device, or network and verifying that the connection is authorized. After authentication, it establishes an encrypted tunnel to protect data as it moves between the connected points.
Once the tunnel is active, the VPN gateway routes traffic securely between networks or sites. Common protocols used for this process include IPsec and SSL/TLS, which help encrypt data and keep communications private.
Types of VPN gateways
- Hardware VPN gateways are dedicated physical appliances used on-premises.
- Software VPN gateways are virtual or cloud-based gateway software.
- Cloud VPN gateways are managed services offered by providers such as AWS, Azure, and GCP.
VPN gateway vs. VPN server
A VPN server usually handles secure connections from individual users or devices, while a VPN gateway typically connects entire networks, offices, or sites to each other and routes traffic between them securely.
