L2TP

In computer networking, the Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP) is a tunneling protocol used to support virtual private networks (VPNs). L2TP can crudely be described as "PPP over IP", although it has many more features than this simple description would imply.

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Published in 1999 as a proposed standard, L2TP has its origins primarily in two older tunneling protocols: Cisco's Layer 2 Forwarding (L2F) and Microsoft's Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP).

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A new version of this protocol, L2TPv3, is currently in draft form. In addition to the L2TP features, it is engineered to be a possible alternative to Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS).

Computer network: A computer network is a system for communication among two or more computers. These networks may be fixed (cabled, permanent) or temporary (as via modems or null modems)....

Tunneling protocol: A tunneling protocol is a network protocol which encapsulates one protocol or session inside another. Protocol A is encapsulated within protocol B, such that A treats B as though it were a data link layer. Tunneling may be used to transport a network protocol through a network which would not otherw...

Virtual private network: A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, is a private communications network usually used within a company, or by several different companies or organizations, to communicate over a public network. VPN message traffic is carried on public networking infrastructure (e.g. the Internet) using standard (ofte...