Host/Client

• The host software only provides an access point for connections; users wishing to connect to the VPN must use a client program. Some host programs allow the hosting system to connect while others require the host system to run a client program as well. Not all VPN software uses the host/client architecture and are instead peer-to-peer connections.
  
  

Features

• The host software is used to control access to the VPN using security passwords or other gateway devices, as well as control the type of connections and sharing allowed. A host program can also monitor and regulate the network usage and individual connections.
  
  

Options

• Cisco offers a commercially available VPN hosting program for large business and corporate needs, and OpenVPN provides a free VPN hosting application. Other free options such, as Hamachi and Wippien, are peer-to-peer applications and do not have a dedicated host program.