THESIS ABSTRACT

1.

Title:

A VIRTUAL PRIVATE NETWORK (VPN) INFRASTRUCTURE FOR PHILIPPINE MILITARY ACADEMY (PMA) AND GENERAL HEADQUARTERS (GHQ) 156 116

Total Number of Pages: Text Number of Pages: 2. 3. 4. 5.

Author: Rutillo N. Mallilin II Type of Document: Type of Publications: Thesis Unpublished

Host/Accrediting Institution: Saint Louis University (Private) Bonifacio Street, Baguio City CHED, CAR

6.

Sponsor (thesis writing): Philippine Military Academy Foundation Inc (PMAFI) Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City

7.

Keywords:

VIRTUAL PRIVATE NETWORKS, NETWORKING, INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY, INFORMATION SYSTEMS, and DATA COMMUNICATIONS

8.

Abstract: a. Summary: The research detailed an information technology infrastructure employing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) design for Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and General Headquarters (GHQ). Direct observation and participation, unstructured interviews and document analysis (profiling method and questionnaire) were used as data gathering tools. The VPN

infrastructure includes the architectural components (hardware, software, and protocols), application systems, and network management. b. Findings: The study revealed that PMA, in line with its vision and mission, is aggressively pursuing in improving the training support systems, physical infrastructures, and support facilities which include its ICT infrastructure for IT education and training of command personnel and cadets. PMA submit reports needed by GHQ in monthly, semi-annually, annually and case-to-case basis. Reports needed ranges from non-confidential to strictly confidential. PMAs star topology network revealed that modification and reconfiguration of servers and connectivity devices is needed and be relocated to Tangco Hall for the management information system center, the Academy Communications-Electronics and Information Systems (ACEIS), for easy network and server maintenance and troubleshooting. PLDT, Globe, and Bayantel are the three-telecommunication companies that offer an IPSec VPN solution. However, there are VPN appliances available for an enterprise-owned and controlled VPN solution. Conclusions: PMA, in terms of its profile, continuously upgrades its ICT infrastructure for the improvement of education and training of both the command personnel and cadets. PMAs ICT infrastructure is considerably at par with other business organizations, educational institutions, and even government agencies that uses information technology as an enabler and means of attaining its mission and objectives. IPSec and SSL VPN technologies are the existing VPN classification that offers secured connectivity between private networks using Internet as its main connection. To develop military applications systems and service requirements using VPN technology, it requires a mixture of IPSec and SSL VNP solutions. This indicates that the implementation of ICT infrastructure in any military organizations involves a mixture of ICT solutions to improve its organizations, and communication and collaboration with other organizations. Based on PMAs ICT Strategic Plan, its IT infrastructure and the available VPN technologies, it can support the establishment of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) infrastructure for PMA and GHQ to enhance its communication and collaboration by using an enterprise-owned VPN appliance having a combination of IPSec and SSL VPN features. Recommendations: A significant amount of budget allotted to the implementation of a VPN Infrastructure for PMA and GHQ is required for its success. Stakeholders, such as Chief of Staff, AFP, alumni, donors and the Filipino people can be the source of funding for this project. True

c.

d.

servers must be used rather than workstations configured as servers since this has a great effect, in terms of throughput and response time, to cater to the needs of the clients, may it be local users or VPN users. An enterpriseowned VPN solution is recommended rather than outsourcing since the institution will have total control of the configuration, management, security measures in establishing a VPN connection not only to GHQ but also to the liaison offices, satellite camps, mobile employees, customers and suppliers. Amend the current network and security policy to cater to VPN users in order to protect and secure the network operations and services from an unauthorized access and a contingency plan in case of intrusion or damage to critical information or systems. Regular government positions with proper compensation and increase number of ICT personnel are needed to boost the morale for the success of the project. Trainings and workshops will have to be set for the maintenance of the project.