Cisco Systems OL-5490-01 manual Understanding the VPN Client, Connection Technologies

C H A P T E R 1

Understanding the VPN Client

The Cisco VPN Client for Mac OS X is a software application that runs on any Macintosh computer using operating system Version 10.2 or later. The VPN Client on a remote PC, communicating with a Cisco VPN device on an enterprise network or with a service provider, creates a secure connection over the Internet. This connection allows you to access a private network as if you were an on-site user, creating a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

The following VPN devices can terminate VPN connections from VPN Clients:

•Cisco IOS devices that support Easy VPN server functionality

•VPN 3000 Series Concentrators

•Cisco PIX Firewall Series, Version 6.2 or later

With the graphical user interface for the VPN Client for Mac OS X, you can establish a VPN connection to a private network; manage connection entries, certificates, events logging; and view tunnel routing data.

You can also manage the VPN Client for Mac OS X using the command-line interface (CLI). If you are running Darwin, or if you prefer to manage the VPN Client from the CLI, refer to the Cisco VPN Client Administration Guide.

Connection Technologies

The VPN Client lets you use any of the following technologies to connect to the Internet:

•POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service)—Uses a dial-up modem to connect.

•ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network)—May use a dial-up modem to connect.

•Cable—Uses a cable modem; always connected.

•DSL (Digital Subscriber Line)—Uses a DSL modem; always connected.

You can also use the VPN Client on a PC with a direct LAN connection.

VPN Client User Guide for Mac OS X

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