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How to Set Up Site-to-Site VPN

Lawrence Bonk Profile image

Written By:

Lawrence Bonk
Updated August 15, 2022

If you are new to the world of digital networks, you may wonder how to set up a site-to-site VPN. Some of the best VPNs, after all, allow for this functionality. So what is a site-to-site VPN, what are the advantages, and how do you set one up? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • A site-to-site network allows two different locations to co-exist on the same VPN connection using a pre-shared key.
  • This is useful for sharing files and the like while retaining the encryption benefits and static routes associated with a virtual private network or VPN tunnel.
  • The setup process differs from service to service, so read the VPN instructions thoroughly to hide your public IP address.

What is a Site-to-Site VPN?

A site-to-site VPN setup is when two different networks are connected together using a single VPN service, which you can do if you’ve learned how to set up a Windows VPN. The implementation is rather simple if you know how to set up a VPN on a router. Site-to-site setups are great for many reasons, even if you just learned how to use a VPN on Apple TV.

Insider Tip

Make sure to keep your VPN password in a secure location to prevent snoopers from hacking your account.

Why Use Site-to-Site VPN?

If you want to access all of the benefits of a traditional VPN while still maintaining constant contact with another network or device, a site-to-site setup is the best fit. This allows you to easily transfer files between the two networks or devices, all within the safe confines of your official VPN.

How to Connect a Site-to-Site VPN

There is really no universal way to do this as the design of each VPN differs entirely, as do the inner workings of each network and router. There are, however, some useful tips to get started.

Do Your Research

Not every VPN offers site-to-site services, and very few free VPNs do. In other words, conduct thorough research before paying for a subscription-based VPN. Make sure they advertise site-to-site implementation and, if possible, give them a call to discuss the service.

Follow the Setup Instructions

Getting this type of network up and running with multiple locations is not for the faint of heart, with different procedures across differing platforms. When you settle on your preferred VPN, read any and all instructions for a site-to-site setup. You should be fine if you follow each prompt and step precisely as indicated.

Make Sure You Can Access the Router

Many of these VPNs require some router configurations as part of the overall setup process. In other words, ensure you have ready access to your router to make the necessary adjustments. This should not be an issue for most but could be in a multi-family setup and the like.

STAT: A site-to-site setup is where two (or more) different networks are connected together using one VPN tunnel. (source)

Site-to-Site VPN FAQs

Why implement a site-to-site VPN?

To share VPN connections with another network, mask your public IP address, reduce network traffic, use static routes, and more.

What is a virtual private network?

A VPN is a private network that allows you to mask your public IP address, use a VPN tunnel and static routes to reduce network traffic, and use a private subnet for encryption.

Do it yourself site-to-site VPN connection?

Creating static routes or a VPN tunnel without a dedicated VPN service is not for the faint of heart. Go with a real company.
Lawrence Bonk Profile image
Lawrence Bonk
Lawrence Bonk is a copywriter with a decade of experience in the tech space, with columns appearing in Engadget, Huffington Post and CBS, among others. He has a cat named Cinnamon.