VPN's:Virtual Private Networks

Virtual Private Networks are exactly what the name implies. Essentially it is a private   network that is setup on ISP's (Internet Service Provider) Server and is accessed over the Internet.

Basically how this works is you put all the  data, information, and forms etc. that you  share with  users on an ISP's server. You then set passwords, access privileges etc. for files and data as you would on a private network. The  ISP then  maintains the Server so that  those resources available over the Internet.

This kind of set-up offers many advantages over an in-house server solution.
 

• The ISP maintains the Server, hardware and internet connections. This allows you to  concentrate on your business and not be involved in maintaining computer equipment.
• An ISP will generally have current state of art  equipment that is upgraded and  maintained regularly offering better performance than an in-house solution.
• The ISP will also have broader access to high speed internet connections and the  Internet backbone providing better performance.
• The ISP will be able to upgrade your service quickly if you outgrow the original service  agreement.This saves you having to buy and set up all new equipment if you outgrow your  own system
• This type of set-up can allow more clients to access your system without special  configurations and additional  systems management effort. Easily connect new clients,  mobile users and affiliate companies.

Although this system works over the Internet , the ability to provide secure access to information  is as great or greater than that of  a local system.This system allows the Architect, builder, team members, managers, back-office and other  personnel to interact. They can share schedules, plans and revisions, job site data, changes and other data easily at one location offering instant access by others to the same information. Access to certain data and files  can still be  restricted and controlled  so that sensitive information does not get into the wrong hands.

Large and small companies alike are moving to VPN's to provide access to their ever growing resource of data. As communications and resource sharing  grows, VPN's can provide an efficient way of handling those resources and leave you more time to concentrate on your business.