What is a Private Network?
A private network is a completely isolated network environment used to connect and protect internal servers. Unlike a public network, communication within a private network is not exposed to the public internet, thus providing higher security and privacy. Private network services ensure that data and applications operate in an isolated network environment.
Basic Principles of Private Networks
The key to building a private network lies in using Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) and dedicated switches to achieve network isolation. Here is the basic architecture of a private network:
VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network)
VLAN technology allows the creation of multiple logically isolated networks on the same physical network device, ensuring data isolation between different networks.
Dedicated Switches
Servers connect through dedicated switches configured with VLANs to ensure that only specified servers can communicate with each other.
Server Connection and Configuration
To build an effective private network, at least two private network servers are required. Here is a basic configuration:
Server A and Server B connect to the same VLAN and communicate through private IP addresses. This communication path is completely isolated from the public internet, visible only to servers within the same VLAN.
Example Configuration:
- Server A: Private IP 10.0.0.1
- Server B: Private IP 10.0.0.2
- VLAN ID: 100
In this setup, Server A and Server B communicate securely within VLAN 100, completely isolated from the public internet.
Network Security and Encryption
To further enhance network security, encrypted networks or encrypted VPNs can be used within a private network. These technologies ensure that data is encrypted during transmission, preventing unauthorized access.
Encrypted VPN
An encrypted VPN creates a secure communication tunnel, ensuring the safety of data transmission.
Private VPN Server
Deploying a private VPN server adds an extra layer of security to the network.
Advantages of Private Networks
Security
Private networks isolate internal networks, preventing external attacks and data breaches. Encrypted VPNs further enhance data transmission security.
Performance
Private networks reduce network latency and improve data transfer speed through dedicated networks.
Manageability
Private networks facilitate the management and monitoring of internal traffic, enabling the implementation of security policies.
Use Cases
Private networks are suitable for various high-security and isolation-required application scenarios, including but not limited to:
Database Clusters
Ensures secure high-frequency data exchange and communication.
Enterprise Internal Applications
Ensures the security of sensitive data and applications.
Development and Testing Environments
Prevents immature code and data from leaking into the public network.
Private Cloud Servers and Virtual Private Servers
When building a private network, users can also choose private cloud servers and virtual private servers (VPS). These servers offer flexible resource management and efficient performance, forming an important part of private networks.
Private Cloud Servers
Provide an isolated cloud environment ensuring data and application security.
Virtual Private Servers (VPS)
Offer independent server environments through virtualization technology, making management and expansion easier.
Private Network Pricing
You need to rent at least two dedicated servers to build a private network. Private Network Pricing: $10.00/month per server.