MCI introduced a new IP VPN Remote network-based service designed to securely and seamlessly connect remote and traveling workers to their existing corporate networks via the Internet. MCI said its Secure Interworking Gateway (SIG) provides enterprises with access to their existing frame relay, ATM, Private IP and IP VPN networks via the Internet. The gateway automatically authenticates the connection, requesting user name and password confirmation from the edge server. Once a user is granted access, communications are routed to a customers’ data network via a Permanent Virtual Circuit or an IPSec tunnel. As a managed offering MCI owns, manages, monitors and updates the secure gateway deployed within its network. Until now, MCI’s CPE-based remote access VPN offering required equipment residing at the customer’s location.
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- In September 2001, AT&T announced an IP VPN portfolio that included global remote dial access, Ethernet access and integration with its Internet data centers. The rollout included the ability to uses Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP) to leverage existing Frame Relay networks. AT&T later added support for narrowband and broadband IP Security (IPSec) encrypted tunnels for remote access.