Remote Access Device

A remote access device is more commonly referred to as a remote access server or RAS. It may be a discrete piece of equipment known as a chassis based RAS, take the form of an adapter card, or simply be a software application. Whatever form it takes, its primary function is to control access to a computer or network from a remote location such as a home office or hotel room.

Network Access Control

In its simplest form, a PC becomes a remote access device by having remote access software installed on its hard drive. This is a typical method for linking two PCs that are geographically separate. A salesperson on the road needing access to a home desktop computer would probably use this type of application.

The next level is the chassis-based RAS, which enables multiple users to access a computer network simultaneously. It is usually able to handle both analog and digital signals and works with the network database to authenticate users before permitting access to the network. In addition, it will incorporate a firewall and comprehensive management software.

Scalable Solutions

Adapter cards are most often used for large scale installations that need to provide reliable and secure remote access to many users. These cards are plugged into a standard PCI 2.1 slot on a standard server and are easy to install and configure. Increases in the user base are quickly managed by simply adding more cards to available PCI slots, making this kind of remote access device popular amongst Internet Service Providers.