Question

Hyperactive Media Sales needs to provide a remote access solution for its traveling salespeople. They have a server running Windows Server 2012 R2 that can be configured as a remote access server for VPN connectivity. You have been reviewing the VPN protocols that are available and need to decide on the best protocol. The traveling salespeople often stay in hotels, so firewall compatibility is a serious concern. Which VPN protocol has the best compatibility with firewalls? Why?

Answer 1

The best VPN protocol for firewall compatibility is SSL/TLS, often implemented as OpenVPN. It uses port 443, the same used by HTTPS traffic, ensuring it is typically allowed through firewalls at different locations, including hotels.

Step-by-step explanation:

The VPN protocol with the best compatibility with firewalls, which is a serious concern for Hyperactive Media Sales when providing remote access for its traveling salespeople, is SSL/TLS. The SSL/TLS protocol, commonly implemented as OpenVPN, operates on port 443, which is the same port used by HTTPS traffic. The widespread use of HTTPS for secure web browsing means that this port is almost always allowed through firewalls in various networks, like hotels where salespeople might stay. Additionally, SSL/TLS VPNs are often seen to provide a good balance between security, firewall compatibility, and performance. OpenVPN is an example of an SSL/TLS-based VPN that can be easily configured on Windows Server 2012 R2 and provides the necessary flexibility and security required for remote access by traveling salespeople.