Chapter 2. Cisco VPN 3000 Concentrator Series Hardware Overview

After completing this chapter, you will be able to perform the following tasks:

• Identify the model series that makes up the VPN Concentrator range

• Understand the differences between the various models of the VPN 3000 Concentrator

• Understand the differing VPN Clients that operate with the VPN 3000 Concentrator

• Identify the placement options within your network for the VPN 3000 Concentrator

The first chapter provided a technical overview of virtual private networks (VPNs) and focused on IPSec as a VPN technology. This chapter provides an overview of the Cisco VPN Concentrator family of products. In January 2000, Cisco bought Altiga Networks. With this acquisition came the new VPN Concentrator product range. The VPN Concentrator is a relatively new product from Cisco Systems. This chapter covers the Cisco VPN 3000 Concentrator Series. It describes the Cisco VPN 3000 Concentrator Series models and details the major features and functions of the hardware.