Background of the Study
In recent years, universities have increasingly relied on secure network communication to protect sensitive academic and administrative data. The University of Jos, Plateau State, faces challenges related to the security of its network infrastructure, especially with the rise of cyber threats such as hacking, data breaches, and unauthorized access (Akinwunmi et al., 2024). To mitigate these risks, universities need to adopt security technologies such as Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), which provide secure, encrypted connections over public networks.
A VPN is a technology that enables secure communication over a potentially insecure network like the internet by encrypting data packets and tunneling them between networks (Odufuwa & Akinyele, 2023). For a university like the University of Jos, which handles large volumes of sensitive data related to students, faculty, and research, implementing a VPN can ensure that all communications are encrypted and that unauthorized access is blocked. Moreover, with increasing use of remote learning and virtual collaboration, it is vital that all users—whether on-campus or off-campus—can securely access university resources from any location.
Despite the importance of a VPN for securing digital communications, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding of its benefits and the specific requirements for effective implementation in the Nigerian university context (Zubair et al., 2023). This study aims to design and implement a VPN solution that ensures secure, reliable access to the University of Jos's network while providing guidelines for its adoption across other Nigerian universities.
Statement of the Problem
The University of Jos currently faces significant challenges in ensuring the security of its network infrastructure due to increasing cyber threats, particularly those targeting sensitive academic and administrative data. The absence of a robust security solution such as a VPN leaves the university vulnerable to unauthorized access, data interception, and cyberattacks. Moreover, with a growing number of students and staff requiring remote access to the university’s network, the lack of a secure, centralized communication platform further compounds these challenges. Without an effective VPN, securing sensitive university data and providing safe access for remote users remains a pressing issue.
Objectives of the Study
To design a Virtual Private Network (VPN) architecture for secure communication within the University of Jos's network.
To implement the VPN solution and evaluate its effectiveness in securing university data and providing remote access to staff and students.
To recommend best practices for the ongoing management and expansion of the VPN system within the University of Jos.
Research Questions
How can a Virtual Private Network (VPN) be designed to meet the specific security needs of the University of Jos?
What are the challenges faced during the implementation of a VPN at the University of Jos, and how can they be overcome?
How effective is the VPN in improving data security and providing secure access for remote users at the University of Jos?
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on the design and implementation of a VPN for the main campus of the University of Jos, Plateau State. It will primarily address the security needs of academic and administrative staff, as well as students, in terms of secure network access. The study will exclude other campuses or external sites of the university, and may face constraints in terms of technical support, equipment availability, and the time required for full implementation.
Definitions of Terms
Virtual Private Network (VPN): A technology that allows secure, encrypted communication between networks over the internet.
Network Security: The practices, policies, and tools used to protect a network from unauthorized access, cyberattacks, and data breaches.
Data Encryption: The process of converting data into a coded format to prevent unauthorized access.
Tunneling: The process of sending data through an encrypted "tunnel" within a network to protect it from interception.
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