Introduction - SnapGear VPN Router User Manual

1. Introduction

This chapter provides an overview of the SnapGear VPN Router's features and capabilities, and previews
how to install and configure your SnapGear VPN Router.
The SnapGear VPN Router enables small to medium-sized businesses to securely interconnect computers
on the office network to the Internet. The SnapGear VPN Router has all the features a business needs to
take full advantage of the Internet. Whether you are connecting to the Internet for the first time or looking
for a cost-effective and safe VPN solution, the SnapGear VPN Router will meet your needs.
The SnapGear VPN Router simply and securely interconnects your network to the Internet through a
robust embedded firewall. Shielded behind a NAT gateway, your office computers are protected from
outside threats. The SnapGear VPN Router filters and inspects packets of data to prevent unauthorized
Internet applications from accessing your network.
The SnapGear VPN Router provides your network with a virtual private network (VPN) server. A VPN
enables remote workers or branch offices to securely access your company network to send and receive
data at a very low cost. With the SnapGear VPN Router, you can now remotely access your office network
securely through the Internet. Additionally, the SnapGear VPN Router is able to connect as a client to
external VPNs.
With the SnapGear VPN Router, everyone on your office LAN can access the Internet through the one
connection. Your entire network can log on to the Internet using only one ISP account through the one
analog modem, DSL, or ISDN line, eliminating the need for a separate connection and ISP charge for each
individual user. With a dial-in modem connected to your SnapGear VPN Router, your remote staff can
also securely direct-dial into your office network.
This manual details how to take advantage of the features of your SnapGear VPN Router – including
setting up a VPN, a secure firewall and an Internet connection. It also details how to set up the SnapGear
VPN Router on your existing or new network. This is done through the web configuration interface.
Installing your SnapGear VPN Router into a well-planned network is quick and easy. However, network
planning and design is outside the scope of this manual. Please take some time to plan your network prior
to installing your SnapGear VPN Router.
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Introduction