F5 APM- SSL VPN – Network Access

I’m used to working with Virtual Private Networks (VPN). I’ve learnt how to improve SSL VPN performance with DTLS and I’ve even configured layer 2 VPN with E-Line VPWS and E-LAN VPLS. I think, VPNs are really useful because we can connect branch offices to the datacenter easily and cheaper than leased lines. In addition, VPNs are also used to connect remote workers or teleworkers to the office. Today, this is quite used due to the coronavirus!

IPsec VPN is a layer 3 VPN which is increasingly used to connect branch offices to the datacenter because broadband networks, such as FTTH, are really reliable. What’s more, there are broadband networks till 1 Gbps which is enough for most companies. Thanks to IPsec VPN and the reliable broadband networks, along with SD-WAN, we can connect branch offices to the datacenter securely, reliable and cheaper than leased lines.

SSL VPN is a layer 7 VPN which is increasingly used to connect remote users to the datacenter because it’s easy to use and easier to configure than IPsec VPN. Mainly, there are two configuration modes. Tunnel Mode, which requires a VPN client software installed in the user laptops, and Portal Mode, which is clientless. You can watch in the next video how to configure a SSL VPN in Portal Mode with F5 APM.

Regards my friends! What kind of VPN do you use to connect to your office?