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VPN question

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  • 06-10-2008 10:30am
    #1
    Redbull123
    Closed Accounts Posts: 1 ✭


    Hey
    Can my network admins view details of my Internet history when VPN is activated ?


Comments

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    #2
    here.from.day.1
    Registered Users Posts: 1,211 ✭✭✭here.from.day.1


    I do think so, yes.


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    #3
    liamo
    Registered Users Posts: 1,193 ✭✭✭liamo


    It depends.

    Your browser resolves your target sites to an IP address by requests to a DNS server. If this is an internal DNS server then this could leave a trail.

    I'm not entirely sure what you mean by "when VPN is activated".

    If you are routing your http requests through the VPN - bypassing your usual gateway or proxy - then these requests are encrypted and don't leave a history. Of course, depending on your setup your browser may record your browing history.

    You should be aware of your workplace's Acceptable Use Policy, if such exists. If you breach your employer's policies you may find yourself in hot water, or out of a job.

    Regards,

    Liam


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    #4
    seamus
    Registered Users Posts: 68,317 ✭✭✭✭seamus


    Depends on how the software is configured. Some VPN softwares will only route coporate traffic (i.e. traffic to the Company Network) over the VPN link. For all other traffic, such as web browsing and the like, this is routed over the local LAN. In this case, the company cannot/does not track your internet history.

    However, having a machine which is connected both to the coporate network and the internet at the same time poses a security risk. Most VPN configurations I've seen force all traffic to be routed via the corporate LAN when the VPN connection is active. Thus, when you surf the web with VPN active, you are probably using the company proxy server. At which point, all your browsing activities can be traced back to you.

    Thus, always disconnect from the company VPN before surfing porn.

    The easiest way to find out if this is the case:

    1. With the VPN disconnected, go to www.whatismyipaddress.com and make a note of the address that appears.

    2. Close the browser, connect to the VPN, and then open the browser and go to the same link. Press Ctrl + F5 to make sure you have an up-to-date page. If that page reports a different address, then you're using the company network for web browsing, not your home one.


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