C H A P T E R
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VPN Client User Guide for Mac OS X
OL-5490-01
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Understanding the VPN Client
The Cisco VPN Client for Mac OS X is a software application that runs on any Macintosh computer
using operating system Version 10.2 or later. The VPN Client on a remote PC, communicating with a
Cisco VPN device on an enterprise network or with a service provider, creates a secure connection over
the Internet. This connection allows you to access a private network as if you were an on-site user,
creating a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
The following VPN devices can terminate VPN connections from VPN Clients:
•
Cisco IOS devices that support Easy VPN server functionality
•
VPN 3000 Series Concentrators
•
Cisco PIX Firewall Series, Version 6.2 or later
With the graphical user interface for the VPN Client for Mac OS X, you can establish a VPN connection
to a private network; manage connection entries, certificates, events logging; and view tunnel routing
data.
You can also manage the VPN Client for Mac OS X using the command-line interface (CLI). If you are
running Darwin, or if you prefer to manage the VPN Client from the CLI, refer to the
Cisco VPN Client
Administration Guide
.
Connection Technologies
The VPN Client lets you use any of the following technologies to connect to the Internet:
•
POTS (Plain Old Telephone Service)—Uses a dial-up modem to connect.
•
ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network)—May use a dial-up modem to connect.
•
Cable—Uses a cable modem; always connected.
•
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line)—Uses a DSL modem; always connected.
You can also use the VPN Client on a PC with a direct LAN connection.
