New Training: Verify Data Path Virtualization Technologies

In this 8-video skill, CBT Nuggets trainer Jeff Kish explains data path virtualization technologies. Gain an understanding of VRFs, GRE tunneling, and the components of IPsec. Watch this new Cisco training.

Watch the full course: Cisco CCNP Enterprise Core

This training includes:

• 8 videos

• 41 minutes of training

You’ll learn these topics in this skill:

• Intro

• Virtual Routing and Forwarding Instances (VRFs)

• Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE)

• Recursive Routing and GRE

• IPsec Communication

• IKE Tunnels

• VPN Types

• Review and Quiz

Don’t Mistake the Way VPNs and GRE Tunnels Move Traffic

An IPSec Virtual Private Network (VPN) and a Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE) tunnel manage to take data and pass it along public networks like the Internet. But just because the technologies sound similar doesn’t mean they’re interchangeable.

VPNs are most commonly used to provide a way for companies to get users who either don’t have a workstation or who are working away from the office onto their network securely. Generally speaking, VPNs offer cost savings because there’s no need to lease new lines if you’re using an Internet connection. They also provide various encryption methods to secure the data. And the small number of components necessary to make them happen means it’s a relatively quick way to expand a network.

GREs function similarly, except their difference is in that they encapsulate packets. Like putting a letter in an envelope, with GRE it’s possible to wrap up a data transmission in a packet that intermediary networks recognize. GREs are simple and relatively bare — that can lead to security concerns, but the tech is also customizable. GREs can also perform multicast forwarding, which VPNs can’t.