When setting up the NIVOMAX Viewers, understanding the differences between Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), and the role of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) is crucial. Here, we will break down these concepts and clarify the appropriate deployment scenarios for our software.
What is LAN?
A Local Area Network (LAN) connects network devices over a short distance, such as within a building or a hanger. LANs are typically used for sharing resources like files, printers, or other applications. A LAN can be connected to the internet or other WANs.
NIVOMAX Viewer Network Edition is designed for LAN environments. This setup is ideal for users within the same physical location, where network latency is minimal, and data transfer speeds are maximally efficient.
What is WAN?
A Wide Area Network (WAN) connects LANs across broader geographic areas, such as between remote sites, cities or even countries. WANs are used to transmit data over long distances and are typically managed via public networks or specialized third-party providers.
For NIVOMAX users needing to access the platform over WAN, the NIVOMAX Viewer Web Application is the required solution. This version is designed to be deployed on a web server, optimizing access across diverse locations without the need for complex and potentially insecure configurations.
The Role of VPN in Virtualizing LAN
VPNs are often used to create a secure and encrypted connection over the internet, resembling a private network. While VPNs can virtualize LAN environments by connecting geographically dispersed endpoints into a single network, this is not permitted for NIVOMAX.
Why Not Use VPN to Connect WAN Endpoints for NIVOMAX?
Licensing and Deployment: Our licensing model differentiates between LAN and WAN deployments. The NIVOMAX Viewer Network Edition is licensed for LAN use only, and using a VPN to extend this to WAN is contrary to the licensing terms. Instead, the NIVOMAX Viewer Web Application should be used for WAN environments, which is specifically optimized and licensed for such use.
Security and Performance: NIVOMAX Network Edition is not tested nor approved to use through VPNs, therefore attempting to setup under such conditions will introduce risks. VPNs can also introduce security vulnerabilities and often have slower data speeds due to encryption overhead and the longer path data must travel resulting in unexpected behavior.
Conclusion
Choosing the right network setup for deploying NIVOMAX is essential for efficient and secure operation. For local networks within a single physical location, the NIVOMAX Viewer Network Edition is perfect. For broader geographic access, the NIVOMAX Viewer Web Application deployed on a web server will provide the best performance and compliance with licensing terms.
By understanding these network types and following the recommended deployment strategies, organizations can leverage the full capabilities of NIVOMAX while maintaining robust security, compliance and operational efficiency.
