Here is the final part of a three part tutorial from the Linux Journal on using Linux in various local area network capacities.
This article describes the implementation of a virtual private network (VPN) server, which we built so our wireless users can encrypt their transmissions over an unsecured network.
Wi-Fi System
The owners of Mesa Regal have supplied the computer lab with superb equipment, and the resort is being wired with Wi-Fi hotspots that should make it possible for all residents to have free broadband access from their RV sites. Some locations will require high-sensitivity antennas, but the capability will be there. For comparison, most RV resorts that have Wi-Fi capability charge $20 - $30 per month for it. In the campground where we are residing as I write this, access is $25 per week! The main problem is the owners require the network to be unsecured, despite all recommendations to the contrary. Although most, if not all, sensitive communications use SSL, many of our members are reluctant to divulge any information over an unsecured channel. To provide security for them, I have implemented a VPN server that provides encrypted tunnels from the user to our Linux machine.
