Always up to date with the latest technology and at the right budget? To ensure this, both start-ups and large companies turn to IT leasing.
But this flexible financing solution has even more advantages. Find out below what these are and whether they are also suitable for your situation.
With leasing, you pay a monthly fee over a fixed contract period to use the relevant hardware. Depending on the provider and agreement, you then have the option of returning the equipment or buying it.
The key difference between leasing and installment plan is that companies can deduct the installments from their taxes as operating costs. They also have hardly any impact on the credit rating.
If you opt for a finance lease, i.e. you want to buy the IT hardware afterwards, the conditions for the tax advantage vary. You should therefore discuss this with the relevant provider before signing the contract.
A modern and secure infrastructure is relevant in every type of company. However, working with information technology always means having to reckon with dynamic developments.
As this goes hand in hand with new and improved hardware and software being released every year, it is not easy to keep up. Obviously, the choice is between regularly purchasing new equipment or sticking with older models. Leasing IT hardware can give you a decisive competitive advantage at this point.
Advantages of IT leasing at a glance:
Possible disadvantages:
The advantages are obvious, but whether this type of financing is right for your company depends on your individual situation. How worthwhile leasing is compared to buying depends closely on your objectives, budget and company values.
However, IT leasing is a good consideration, for example, if…
The respective conditions and offers vary depending on the IT leasing provider. One example is the option of booking full-service packages. These often include services, software and warranty options - this is recommended, as you as the lessee are legally responsible for maintenance and possible repairs.
It is worth clarifying the following questions before concluding a contract:
This means that the IT leasing company you choose should provide you with transparent information and advice.
Low acquisition costs even without leasing?
Not sure whether leasing is the best option, but can't afford high acquisition costs? Then buying refurbished hardware could be the right choice. You can save up to 70% of the costs compared to buying new and still get high-quality network technology for your company.
We have been equipping customers in the B2B and B2G sectors with network technology, servers, storage and IT hardware since 2018. We focus on the sale of new and refurbished goods and also offer you the option of IT leasing.
We will be happy to prepare an individual offer for you with a 100% transparent cost breakdown. Full control, no surprises and above all - high-quality hardware from top brands such as Cisco, HPE Aruba or Juniper.
From switches and transceivers to routers, we can provide you with all the network components you need for a stable and efficient IT infrastructure.
You can read more about our conditions on our IT Leasing page for companies. Alternatively, you can describe your situation to us directly using our leasing inquiry form.
We look forward to hearing from you.
While some people are increasingly enthusiastic about buying used technology, others are still quite hesitant about the subject. The reason for this is often the fear of receiving inferior and outdated equipment that could lead to a fault in the IT infrastructure or a loss of data.
To anticipate this concern: It is unfounded. If you know what to look out for when purchasing, used and refurbished IT hardware is a real benefit for you. We mean that in the truest sense of the word, because: By buying second-hand, you save money and make a valuable contribution to environmental protection at the same time.
In this blog post, we take a closer look at these factors and explain why the reluctance to buy used IT hardware is unfounded.
The three terms all belong to the same context, but are quickly mistakenly blurred into synonyms. However, there is a significant difference that will certainly influence your choice:
First of all, used means all devices that have already been in use. That is the only thing this term says and therefore nothing about the quality and condition of the hardware in question.
Refurbished IT hardware is also used - but is extensively checked for defects and refurbished before being resold. This includes, for example, the conscientious deletion of data, the replacement of faulty individual parts and cleaning. In the end, you receive a used device that has been refurbished as good as new and even comes with a warranty.
In the remainder of this blog post, we are deliberately referring specifically to refurbished devices. This is because you are on the safe side with these, especially in a corporate context. This is also the reason why we at IT-Planet have specialized in a range of new and refurbished IT hardware for complex requirements.
It is not without reason that more and more suppliers are offering refurbished appliances as well as new ones. There are many advantages associated with the purchase. These apply to private users as well as companies of all sizes.
We generally recommend that you play it safe and opt for refurbished products. Particularly in the corporate context, you are just as protected in this way as with new devices.
To show the other side: Refrain from buying hardware declared as used from private sources. The term is elastic and can mean anything from inferior technology to minor signs of use, especially on popular flea market platforms. However, as you cannot claim any warranty or service here, in the worst case scenario you will be left with an interrupted IT infrastructure.
Make sure you buy from reputable sources. There are now various such providers and dealers of new hardware also offer a section with used products.
By the way: Refurbished does not immediately mean old! Contrary to a widespread assumption, you will not only receive discontinued models, but also modern technologies.
Attention also when selling used devices
Also look for a reputable provider when buying your used IT hardware (IT-Planet also buys hardware)! Ideally, you should delete all the data on your devices yourself before you hand them in. However, if you overlook something, it can quickly become very detrimental for you in the wrong hands. Professional refurbishers make sure that all data has been carefully deleted before the device is sold on.
At IT-Planet, we offer you both as-new and refurbished network technology and IT hardware. The latter is not just a side business for us, but a priority. That is why you will find a large selection of used products from well-known manufacturers such as Cisco, APC, HPE Aruba or Juniper. We also specialize in the high demands of business customers and are therefore the ideal contact if you need hardware for your company.
Expand your IT infrastructure now with high-quality switches or routers, for example - and do something good for the environment and your wallet in the process. We look forward to your inquiry.
Both switches and routers are part of the list of components that contribute to a secure and functioning network. In the worst case scenario, a failure can paralyze the entire IT infrastructure. This makes it all the more important to know the right use case for the corresponding hardware. In our blog "Build IT infrastructure and benefit from improved processes", you can find out how you can build an effective infrastructure.
Here you can find out how switches and routers differ from each other and how best to use them.
In short, both components are responsible for targeted data transmission, but work on different layers of the OSI model. Routers (network layer, layer 3) forward data with IP addresses across networks. Switches (data link layer, layer 2) transmit data between participants within a local network using MAC addresses. Layer 3 switches combine the tasks of both devices and can perform basic, but not advanced, router functions.
| Properties | Layer-2-Switch | Layer-3-Switch | Router |
|---|---|---|---|
| Routing properties | Not routable | Basic routing functions | Also extended routing functions |
| Only works in LAN | Works in LAN and WLAN | Works in WLAN | |
| Layer in the OSI model | Layer 2 (Data Link Layer) | Layer 3 (Network Layer) | Layer 3 (Network Layer) |
| Targeted data forwarding | Identification via MAC table | Identification via MAC table and IP address | Identification via IP address |
| Suitability | For internal communication only | For internal and partly external communication | For complex, external communication |
As the definitions of both hardware components show, a direct comparison is difficult because the two perform different tasks. Particularly in extensive networks, it is therefore less a case of switch or router, but rather switches and routers.
Layer 3 switches bridge the gap between the two devices and take on tasks from both areas.
The question remains, why are there routers if a switch combines both functions?
It is very important to emphasize that a layer 3 switch performs basic routing functions. If these are sufficient for your purposes, such a device can certainly be used for both. The fast transmission in particular makes it a popular alternative in companies that mainly consist of one location.
However, in complex company structures at the latest, it is advisable to use both the one and the other. This allows you to achieve the best performance and better monitor individual nodes within your network according to their specific function. Above all, however, extended router services are often decisive in such an environment.
These include, among others:
You will find both routers and switches in our range. You can get them new, but also refurbished - an absolute advantage for the environment, but also for your wallet.
If you are still unsure at this point which device is the better choice for you, please get in touch with us using our contact form. We will be happy to advise you in detail.
You may also find our detailed blog post helpful: "Which switch is the right one? - From home applications to large corporations", where you can find out more about the topic and also get information on unmanaged and managed switches.
Although WLAN is now available almost everywhere, network cables are far from obsolete. They ensure a stable connection and maximize the speed of data transmission - not only in professional, but also in private environments.
The prerequisite for this is that you choose the right version for your requirements. To ensure that this is no longer a problem for you in the future, find out here how network cables differ.
Network cables enable data transmission between different devices within a (LAN) network. This physical connection between switches, computers and servers, for example, is far more stable and faster than WLAN connections.
It is therefore indispensable in the corporate environment, for streaming or other applications with high requirements.
The type of network cable also determines how much of the possible device performance can be achieved.
By the way: Ethernet or LAN cables are also used as an alternative. Another word that is used as a synonym is patch cable. Strictly speaking, however, these are cables that are less than one meter long.
Per Definition gibt es mehrere Arten von Netzwerkkabeln, zu denen beispielsweise auch Hoax- oder Crossover-Kabel gehören. Da diese in modernen Netzwerken allerdings kaum eine Rolle spielen, sparen wir diese an dieser Stelle aus.
Copper cables are the most widely used and can therefore be found in almost every network. Data is transmitted electrically. This is also referred to as twisted pair cables. The copper wires in these are twisted together in pairs (wound around each other in a helical shape). They offer better protection against electrical and magnetic interference fields than wires running parallel to each other.
Network cables are also divided into categories (Category = CAT) from 1-8 so that they can cope with any load, from small amounts of data in the home office to huge simultaneous transmissions in companies.
As CAT 1-4 cables are rarely if ever used today, we will only present the versions that are relevant to you below.
CAT5e cables are the standard for home use and are included with commercially available routers, for example. They offer a bandwidth of 100 MHz and transmission rates of up to 1000 Mbits/s, thus reaching the gigabit range. They are also shielded and therefore less susceptible to interference.
They are increasingly preferred to the outdated CAT5 cables, which only support data transmission of up to 100 Mbits/s and have no shielding.
The next category impresses with even faster data transmission. Unlike their predecessors, these network cables are therefore used in more demanding home applications or even in medium-sized companies. They are a good choice for regular gaming, home office or intensive uploads and downloads. In addition, cables from this category onwards can be used as so-called installation cables, i.e. laid under plaster.
Here too, network cables in this category are divided into two classes: CAT6 cables have a bandwidth of 250 MHz and 1000 Mbits/s, CAT6a cables even have 500 MHz and 10,000 Mbits/s - and therefore 10 GB Ethernet.
The shielding of these cables is even better than that of the 5th category.
One of the differences between these network cables is that they sometimes have a GG45 connector instead of an RJ45 connector. However, these versions are downwards compatible. Here, great importance is attached to solid shielding so that low-interference operation is achieved.
Together with the bandwidth of 600 MHz and the transmission speed of 10,000 Mbit/s, the cables are popular in larger company and IT networks.
CAT8 cables are used in areas where high performance is required. These are currently the most powerful network cables - by far. With a bandwidth of 2000 MHz and a transmission speed of 40,000 Mbits/s, they stand out from the previous categories.
Such a cable is suitable for you, for example, in the corporate environment and in huge server rooms.
| CAT5 | CAT5e | CAT6 | CAT6a | CAT7 | CAT8 |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bandwidth | 100 MHz | 100 MHz | 250 MHz | 500 MHz | 600 MHz | 2000 MHz |
| Speed | 100 Mbit/s | 1000 Mbit/s | 10.000 Mbit/s | 10.000 Mbit/s | 10.000 Mbit/s | 40.000 Mbit/s |
| Shielding | none | good | good |
good | very good | very good |
| Connection type | RJ45 | RJ45 | RJ45 |
RJ45 | RJ45 or GG45 | RJ45 or GG45 |
| Application | Occasionally in home networks | Standard for home networks | Home networks with higher requirements | Home networks + medium-sized companies | Home networks + medium-sized companies | Large companies with high data traffic |
In addition to the classic and widely used CAT cables, fiber optic cables (also known as fiber optic cables) are becoming increasingly relevant.
The inner workings of these cables consist of fibers that use light pulses to transmit information. These are each individually covered with a plastic coating, which is then bundled and sheathed.
A further distinction is made between these network cables:
Twisted pair cables are the standard and guarantee fast and reliable data transmission, depending on the selected performance category. Nevertheless, the expansion of the fiber optic network is being strongly promoted.
This is due to the advantages that these network cables have to offer. These include the following:
Whether you exploit the full potential of your hardware depends heavily on the choice of the right cable. Whether you are an intensive gamer, a small or large company - you will not only notice the difference, but in large network infrastructures you cannot do without a high-quality cable.
Despite having an overview of the different network cables, you don't know which one to choose? Then get in touch with us. We can advise you and help you with our product range. Please get in touch using our inquiry form.
Both hubs and switches are hardware components for data transmission within a network. Although they share this main feature, they differ in many ways.
Read on to find out what this means for your network infrastructure and which device you should choose for the best possible connection.
In short: A hub sends data unfiltered to all connected devices, but can only transmit them one after the other. Switches, on the other hand, identify Mac addresses and only transmit data to specific recipients - several at the same time and in the shortest possible time.
A hub transmits all data to every participant connected to it in a LAN network. It works on layer 1 of the OSI model (physical layer).
However, its work is limited: Several connected devices and larger data volumes slow down performance. This affects all network participants - even those who do not actually need the information.
A hub is therefore unsuitable in a corporate environment due to both its low performance and the lack of data protection. However, this type of data transfer is also being used less and less in private, very small networks.
A network switch is an improved version of a hub. It also sends data to network participants, but distinguishes them based on their Mac address. In this way, information is only sent to the instance for which it is intended.
This is important from a data protection perspective, but also enables faster transmission without affecting non-participants at all. In addition, a switch can manage several data transmissions simultaneously.
Switches work on layer 2 of the OSI model (data link layer) and therefore have functions for error detection and correction and addressing ahead of a hub. There are also so-called layer 3 switches (the third layer of the OSI model is the network layer), which also perform basic routing functions.
While hubs always work in the same way, network switches can be further subdivided according to their functions and properties. Depending on the model selected, they are the ideal component for everything from small home networks to huge corporate networks.
You have the choice between:
You can read more about this in our blog post: "Which switch is the right one? - From home use to large corporations".
Once the switch vs. hub issue has been clarified, the router is often thrown into the ring. However, it differs in its basic function. It works on layer 3 of the OSI layer model and is therefore responsible for data transmission across connection sections, as well as different networks. It uses IP addresses for this purpose.
In contrast to switches and hubs, a router is therefore not limited to a LAN network.
An exception to this are the layer 3 switches already mentioned, which do use IP addresses and perform basic router functions.
However, this topic would go beyond the scope of this article and lead away from the initial question. Are you still interested in finding out exactly what the difference is and whether a 3-layer switch is the only component you need? Then please read our blog post on the topic: "Internet switch vs. router: differences and best use".
For a long time, hubs were the ultimate way to connect devices to a local network. However, switches have caught up in recent years and offer a lot of advantages that their predecessors can't match.
So if you are asking yourself whether a switch or a hub is the right choice for you, the answer is easy: the better solution is usually a network switch. This is true for small home networks, but especially for complex corporate networks. We offer a wide range of switches from various renowned brands, including Cisco, Brocade, Fortinet, HPE Aruba and Juniper.
Are you put off by the higher purchase costs? Refurbished network switches of all kinds are not only a sustainable alternative from an environmental point of view, but also from the point of view of your wallet. Take a look at our range and equip yourself with the best option for data transmission within your network.
The IT infrastructure in companies and organizations is of central importance for the smooth running of business processes. Sensitive IT systems, such as servers, switches, computers, drives, hard disks or processors, are indispensable components that create a trouble-free working environment. However, these devices are not immune to external influences, especially dirt and dust, which can cause subtle damage.
This damage includes not only performance losses, errors and interruptions, but also failures and data loss in the network. Particularly in devices equipped with ventilation systems and coolers, dust particles and dirt enter the sensitive technology through the ventilation slots. This not only impairs cooling, but also leads to heat build-up, which can endanger certain system components over time.
The solution to this problem is regular IT cleaning - this maintains IT security, reliability and availability. It helps to create an optimal working environment and ensures smooth operation. Identifying the need for IT cleaning in good time is important for the long-term stability and efficiency of the IT infrastructure. In this blog post, you will learn when the time is right for IT cleaning and which aspects should be taken into account.
IT cleaning is a topic of increasing relevance in today's IT world. It should not be underestimated as it helps to ensure a stable and effective digital working environment. Important aspects are:
IT devices play a crucial role in everyday office life. The regular use of these systems in the workplace inevitably leads to soiling of screens and keyboards as well as damage to technical equipment. This soiling is caused by dust, sweat, food residue or body fat.
These factors can lead to the growth of bacteria, pathogens and germs. These pathogens pose a significant health risk as they can cause infections. They also have a negative impact on employee motivation, productivity and well-being, which in turn can lead to increased absenteeism.
The accumulation of dust and dirt can impair the proper functioning of technical equipment. If dust gets into the ventilation slots and cooling systems of IT equipment, this can restrict cooling. This in turn can lead to overheating, causing interruptions and failures. The consequence is a noticeable slowdown in the performance of the devices.
When cleaning IT hardware and server rooms, there is a lot to consider and specific methods are crucial. These aspects must be carefully considered to ensure efficient hygienic cleaning.
Cleaning wipes can be used to remove dust build-up on computers. Screens require special screen wipes to achieve a spotless surface. Telephones, mice, keyboards and desks can be hygienically cleaned with universal wipes. Various types of wipes are available, including computer cleaning wipes, keyboard cleaning wipes, microfiber wipes, surface cleaning wipes and antistatic cleaning agents to meet individual requirements.
However, it is not always sufficient to rely solely on cleaning cloths, especially for stubborn dust deposits. In such cases, compressed air sprayers are used, as they are able to remove the accumulated dust using compressed air and simultaneously vacuum it up with a special vacuum cleaner. Computers are also hygienically cleaned using cleaning foam and cleaning cloths to ensure thorough cleaning and maintenance.
Cleaning various components in the IT infrastructure can prevent dangers and threats or minimize risks. Depending on the use and condition of the respective devices, cleaning must be adapted to the working environment, as dirt becomes visible over time. As data center cleaning is a complex maintenance task, it is carried out by trained IT technicians who are familiar with servers, switches and components in racks.
Cleaning includes server rooms, data centers and all IT equipment. Especially in sensitive areas with sensitive hardware, water must never be used to avoid damage. Special vacuum cleaners should also be used to prevent electrostatic discharge, which could damage or destroy the equipment. Special filters can be used to ensure efficient filtering of the smallest dust particles, especially fine dust.
Determining cleaning intervals for data centers requires careful planning and implementation to ensure the longevity and performance of the IT infrastructure. The following data center cleaning intervals should be implemented:
Every 2 years:
Annually:
Quarterly:
Weekly:
In summary, IT cleaning helps to maintain a secure IT infrastructure. It not only extends hardware life or improves hygiene, but also creates a safe working environment. Cleaning intervals can vary depending on usage and company. We have the right IT hardware for you, including servers, switches, routers and transceivers. This means that you and your company can follow the IT cleaning guidelines and ensure that the infrastructure is secure and has a positive and sustainable impact.
From 04 - 06 October 2023, the "Top Partner European eCommerce Event 2023" organized by APC by Schneider Electric took place in Barcelona - and we were invited.
Our colleagues Christian Knittel and Bennet Flöter not only explored the beautiful city of Barcelona, they also received the "eCommerce Rising Star 2023" award for an outstanding partnership with APC by Schneider Electric.
The award stands for special growth as a newcomer in the field of eCommerce.
In addition to the award ceremony and excellent Spanish tapas, there was of course plenty of opportunity to exchange ideas with each other. We learned a lot about future products, marketing tools and also gave a presentation about IT-Planet with insights into our marketing.
The agenda also included a secret excursion, which turned out to be an impressive light show at Casa Milà, which was built by the famous architect Anton Gaudí, and a catamaran trip along the beautiful coast of Barcelona.
On the day of departure, there was once again time for discussions and networking before boarding the plane back to Germany.
We would like to thank APC by Schneider Electric for the wonderfully organized event and all our customers who support us so actively. We are not only delighted about the award, but also about our continued successful cooperation with APC by Schneider Electric.
What does this program include? The HP Renew Program gives you the choice of many high-quality HP refurbished products. These are brought up to date in a complete refurbishment process and comprehensively checked and certified. Even if the HP products have been in use for a short time, you don't need to worry because we check them beforehand and release them for sale in their original packaging. Therefore, these products have the same quality and performance as new HP hardware.
In this blog post, we explain why you should get these products and how to recognize the difference to new HP products.
The HP Renew devices are of outstanding quality, i.e. the devices are shipped in their original packaging and in mint optical and technical condition. You can also increase your budget as the products offer savings and are cheaper than new products.
Other factors include, for example:
You can recognize an HP Renew product by the last letter, an "R", in the manufacturer number. The products do not look any different from new hardware. This is due to the detailed inspection of the goods.
Are you looking for an HP Renew product? Then please send us an inquiry and we will make you an offer.
HP Renew products are an ideal alternative if a new condition product is not currently available in our store. Get certified, reliable and trustworthy HP products at a price you can afford. We also have a large selection of HP products.
However, we also offer another option: IT remarketing. This gives you the opportunity to buy used IT hardware. You also benefit from considerable savings.
Nevertheless, the products are fully functional and come with a warranty. You also make an important contribution to environmental protection. If this is an interesting option for you, you can find the necessary information about this service on our website.
As one of the most important components for functioning networks, switches run continuously. This is reflected in the electricity bill at the latest. It is therefore advisable to take a look at the power consumption of a network switch and can save a lot of money, especially for companies with large structures. That's why we also help you choose the right switch.
However, choosing energy-efficient hardware not only saves costs - you also make a valuable contribution to sustainability.
If you want to do your electricity costs a favor, you can't avoid doing a little research before buying new hardware. This is because network switches do not have a flat-rate power consumption. Instead, this is influenced by several factors:
Number of ports
A network switch with 24 ports generally consumes more power than one with 5 or 8 ports.
Speed of the data rate
The power consumption of a gigabit switch is higher than that of a 100 Mbit/s switch.
Activity
If data is continuously transmitted at high speed, the power consumption is higher than for an idle device.
Switch type
Switches that offer more functions (often managed switches) consume more power.
PoE standard
Many companies use Power over Ethernet switches, where the power supply and network connection are provided via a single cable. These comply with different standards (IEEE standards = Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers), which also define performance and therefore power consumption.
So when making your selection, make sure you choose the switch that meets your requirements and does not go unnecessarily far beyond them.
If you are planning to set up or expand an IT infrastructure, you should have a rough idea of the energy costs in advance. Manufacturers and consumers specify the power consumption of a network switch in watts in the respective description.
With this information, you are well prepared and can easily calculate the costs you will incur:
Power of the device in watts x daily operating time in hours / 1,000 = power consumption per day in kilowatt hours
In the next step, multiply the result by your electricity price from your tariff and you will get the electricity costs of your network switch per day.
If we assume an electricity price of 40 cents and a network switch with 30 watts that runs 24/7, it could look like this:
30 watts x 24 hours / 1,000 = 0.72 kWh/day
0.72 x 40 = 28.8 cents/day
From here, the power consumption of your network switch can simply be extrapolated over the year (rounded 0.29 cents x 365 days = 105.85 euros/year).
Please note that this is an approximate value, as the factors mentioned above will ultimately influence it.
Information technology is also increasingly focusing on sustainability. The term green IT is used to describe measures that aim to reduce energy consumption, waste of resources and CO2 emissions. Find more on the topic of Green IT in our article: "Green IT: Sustainable Information Technology and Its Significance".
In this context, more and more manufacturers are launching energy-efficient network switches with the lowest possible power consumption on the market. The corresponding features can vary.
For example, some models offer automatic shutdown or throttling of unused ports. Intelligent energy management also enables the use of energy-saving Ethernet networks.
Incidentally, using refurbished IT hardware is also very much in the spirit of green IT. You can also find energy-efficient versions among used network switches. In addition, you are conserving resources and can save on the purchase - a benefit for your wallet and the environment. We at IT-Planet will be happy to advise you on this.
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) offers you the opportunity to establish a protected network connection. This helps you to raise your security standards not only in your private life, but also in a business environment. Home office and remote working are no obstacle to efficient and secure networking.
You can find out exactly how you can benefit from this in this blog post.
The main function of a VPN is to hide your IP address on the Internet. It acts as a tunnel through which you can access external networks in encrypted form (provided you are authorized to do so). The data exchange is isolated from the rest of the Internet.
Your request is redirected via a special remote server. Instead of your source device, this is displayed as the source of your IP address.
By disguising your IP address, it appears as if you are part of the local network. Depending on how you use it, you can also bypass country blocks (geoblocking) and surf securely on public networks.
Due to their versatile application options and increased security, VPNs are used in private environments as well as in companies and public institutions. In this way, you can also increase the security of your company.
Important: The use of VPNs is legal in Germany and makes it easier to work remotely, for example. However, if you mainly want to bypass country blocks in order to access streaming content that is not available in Germany, you should first check the terms and conditions of the relevant streaming provider. This can quickly lead you into a legal gray area.
Secure remote access
Companies and universities ensure that employees or students can also access internal data outside the office or campus via a VPN.
Connecting different network locations
VPN also makes it possible to connect different branches of companies securely and over long distances.
Geographical freedom
With a connection to a server abroad and a corresponding IP address, you can gain access to country-specific content. This is often the case in the area of streaming or gaming - as mentioned at the beginning, however, you should always keep an eye on the relevant terms and conditions.
Security in public networks
Connecting to a public WLAN network, such as at the airport or in a café, is always associated with a risk. A VPN is ideal for surfing securely on insecure networks. The tunnel acts as an additional layer of protection.
Privacy when surfing
You can also use a VPN to surf the Internet anonymously. We would like to point out at this point that this is primarily for your own data security. However, this does not make the Internet a legal vacuum. In the event of suspicion, illegal activities can still be traced via detours and cookies, browser fingerprinting and the like.
There are three different types of VPNs, depending on their use.
End-to-end VPNs are used to connect two clients (computers or other end devices) that are located in different networks. Appropriate software must be installed on both sides and access must be guaranteed on both sides. This method is often used for remote maintenance and remote access by IT staff.
End-to-site VPNs allow multiple authorized users to connect to a specific network. In this way, you could enable your employees to access the company network from home or on the road. They are assigned a company-internal IP address for this purpose.
Large companies with several branch offices usually use site-to-site VPNs to connect the different locations with each other. Routers, VPN gateway servers or software clients are used for this purpose.
VPN protocols determine how well the fundamental goals of security, data protection and anonymity are implemented. They perform important tasks such as authentication, encryption and data transmission. They also determine which speeds, capabilities and security levels can be achieved.
To a certain extent, they form the rules that determine exactly how your VPN tunnel is set up. It is therefore important that you choose the protocol that best suits your purposes. This requires a bit of research, as there are several different VPN protocols with various advantages and disadvantages.
SSL VPN uses the SSL/TLS protocol (Secure Sockets Layer/Transport Layer Security) and enables secure access via a web browser without installing any special software. It works at the application layer (layer 7 of the OSI model) and secures the data traffic of mostly web browsers. SSL VPN is often used in remote situations.
IPsec (Internet Protocol Security) works at the network layer (layer 3 of the OSI model) and comprises an entire protocol set. It can secure all data traffic between two networks, but also between a host and a network. A VPN client installed on the end device is usually required to use it. It is mostly used for site-to-site connections, but can also be used for remote applications.
There are also protocols such as WireGuard, OpenVPN or L2TP.
There are different ways to implement VPN and these also depend on your use case.
VPN hardware is often used in larger companies as it has high performance and can also guarantee many connections simultaneously. This allows you to build a better IT infrastructure. The corresponding devices come with corresponding functions as standard. You can choose between dedicated VPN hardware (only suitable for VPN purposes) and multifunctional devices such as routers. Well-known manufacturers for such solutions include Cisco.
VPN software solutions are available both free of charge and for a fee, as open source software or as a cloud-based service. They are easy and flexible to set up so that you can access them quickly. This makes them the ideal choice for small applications in the private sector or smaller companies.
Once you have decided on a VPN that meets your requirements, the next step is configuration. How exactly you have to proceed with the implementation depends, among other things, on your operating system and your choice of software or hardware. There is therefore no universal guide.
Tips for easy setup:
Then read on directly. We regularly publish helpful articles on IT topics and network technology in our blog. Take a look at these topics now:
Network types: Overview of types and areas of application
IT Security in Companies: Importance and Solutions
Networking Essentials: A Comprehensive Guide to Network Basics
