A survey on VPN: Taxonomy, roles, trends and future directions

IF 4.4 2区计算机科学 Q1 COMPUTER SCIENCE, HARDWARE & ARCHITECTURE

Computer Networks Pub Date : 2025-02-01 DOI:10.1016/j.comnet.2024.110964

Jianhua Li , Bohao Feng , Hui Zheng

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

The Virtual Private Network (VPN) originated as a cost-effective alternative to dedicated lines, primarily utilized by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and large organizations. Evolving beyond mere connectivity, people expect that VPNs can provide myriads of services ranging from the protection of privacy to bypassing website blocking. Recent trends, including cloud migration, regulatory measures, and escalating cyber threats, have spurred increased adoption of VPNs for remote access. However, criticisms regarding their shortcomings have led some to advocate for their removal from the Internet. In this paper, we elucidate the VPN concept, taxonomy, roles, associated concerns, and future trends to demystify VPN. Different from existing survey, our analysis reveals VPNs as indispensable, providing an affordable, secure, privacy-enhanced, and flexible connection for individuals and businesses. Still, significant challenges must be addressed to unlock their full potential. Finally, we propose insightful initiatives for VPN design and highlighting ongoing challenges and future research directions.

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来源期刊

Computer Networks 工程技术-电信学

CiteScore

10.80

自引率

3.60%

发文量

434

审稿时长

8.6 months

期刊介绍： Computer Networks is an international, archival journal providing a publication vehicle for complete coverage of all topics of interest to those involved in the computer communications networking area. The audience includes researchers, managers and operators of networks as well as designers and implementors. The Editorial Board will consider any material for publication that is of interest to those groups.