A new security flaw has been identified in the VPN technology used by many router equipment manufacturers. The IPSEC VPN technology uses encryption techniques to secure remote access connections into business networks.

A new security flaw has been identified in the VPN technology used by many router equipment manufacturers. The IPSEC VPN technology uses encryption techniques to secure remote access connections into business networks.

VPN's or Virtual Private Networks enable secure remote access to networks by establishing an encrypted tunnel accross the internet and into a business network. The traffic or data thats is transmitted along this tunnel is secure from interception or eavesdropping.

IPSEC is one VPN technology used almost exclusively by network heavyweight Cisco Systems in their range of network routing equipment. ISPEC has also been widely adopted by other network equipment manufacturers who product products for the home and small business market segments.

The recently discovered vunerability affects routers by enabling hackers to over load and disable the router. This is known as a Denial of Service attach or a DoS attack. The vunerability may also enable a hacker to execute custom code on an affected device enabling them to take control or modify the equipment for their own purposes.

Those businesses who are using IPSEC technology for their remote access networks (VPN's) will now have to update their router equipment to fix the vunerabilities. Cisco Systems provide comprehensive support programs for their customers and are providing assistance to affected customers. Users of other network products should contact their IT support service or their equipment vendor for assistance.

VPN alternatives do exist and Hotmix Group utilises an alternative VPN solution that is not affected by this vunerability. Please contact us to learn more.