There are two types of SSL VPNs – portal and tunnel. They both use SSL or TLS to secure connections between web browsers and remote networks. They differ in the following ways:
- An SSL portal VPN lets users access specific web applications or services on a remote network. No need to install extra software or plugins on your browser. The VPN gateway has a web interface for authentication and access. An SSL portal VPN is more convenient and user-friendly, but less flexible and versatile.
- SSL tunnel VPN allows users to access non-web-based network services. The user might have to install extra software or plugins on their browser, like Java, Flash, or ActiveX, to use the VPN tunneling feature. An SSL tunnel VPN is more complex and resource-intensive, but more powerful and comprehensive.
In summary, an SSL portal VPN and an SSL tunnel VPN have distinct advantages and disadvantages depending on the user’s needs and preferences. An SSL portal VPN is for web-based applications, while an SSL tunnel VPN is for non-web-based network services.
