Secure Socket Layer Virtual Private Network

What Does Secure Socket Layer Virtual Private Network Mean?

A secure socket layer virtual private network (SSL VPN) allows remote users to access Web applications, client-server applications and internal network connections without having to install specialized client software on their computers.

Techopedia Explains Secure Socket Layer Virtual Private Network

Secure socket layer virtual private networks provide secure and private communication for all traffic types between devices equipped with similar technologies across public networks such as the Internet.

There are two major types of SSL VPN:

1. SSL Portal VPN: Allows single SSL connections to websites, allowing end users to securely access multiple network services. Remote users can access the SSL VPN gateway with any Web browser following authentication through a method supported by the gateway. Access is attained through a Web page that acts as a portal to other services.
2. SSL Tunnel VPN: Allows Web browsers to securely access multiple network services, as well non-Web-based protocols and applications, through tunnels running under SSL. SSL tunnel VPN requires that the Web browser handle active content and provide functionality that is not accessible through SSL portal VPN.