Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Usually cheaper than leased lines.
Exam Relevance: CISSP, CCNA, CompTIA Network+
Difficulty: Moderate
Concept notes: Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are generally more cost-effective than leased lines for establishing secure connections over the internet.
Common Mistakes: Students may mistakenly believe that leased lines are always cheaper because they are dedicated connections, but this overlooks the operational and maintenance costs associated with leased lines.
Explanations: VPNs are usually cheaper than leased lines because they leverage existing internet infrastructure, reducing the need for dedicated, expensive physical connections. Leased lines, while offering higher security and performance, come with higher costs due to the need for dedicated hardware and maintenance. The cost savings of using a shared network (internet) for a VPN make it a more economical choice for many organizations.
Option Analysis: - Option A: Incorrect because leased lines are typically more expensive due to dedicated hardware and maintenance costs.
- Option B: Incorrect because while cheaper in many cases, it is not always the case due to varying network requirements and costs.
- Option C: Correct because the shared infrastructure of the internet makes VPNs generally more cost-effective than leased lines.
- Option D: Incorrect because leased lines are usually more expensive due to the dedicated nature of the connection.
Mnemonic: V for Value, P for Practical, N for Network