Use your existing internet connection for the VPN to CU*Answers.
For over 10 years, CU*Answers has offered a secure and encrypted internet-based VPN-only connection for data processing as a low-cost alternative to MPLS. Secure VPN connections are available for just $70 per month per connected branch location.
Are VPN’s secure?
VPNs do a great job of securing your data. CU*BASE VPNs use industry standard 256-bit AES encryption to protect data in transit between your credit union and CU*Answers. Additionally, data sent from your CU workstations to CU*BASE is encrypted using industry standard TLS encryption.
How many VPNs do I need?
You need at least one VPN from your main branch to CU*Answers. However, any branch with an Internet connection and a CU*BASE Cisco router can support a VPN. We recommend at least two branches have a VPN for backup.
How long does it take to configure the VPN?
If you are currently using MPLS, you already have a backup VPN configured for redundancy. With this order, we will disconnect the MPLS circuit and reconfigure the Internet VPN as your primary connectivity. Please allow 2-3 weeks to complete this work.
What about redundancy?
The VPN will ride your existing internet connection as the rails back to CU*BASE. Therefore, if your internet connection fails, so will your connection to CU*BASE. We do recommend each credit union using VPN as their connection strategy have a secondary internet connection as a backup.
Why move to VPN?
MPLS circuits are experiencing significant inflation as last mile carriers adjust rates to keep up with increasing labor costs. They are also raising prices as a way of incenting customers to purchase newer technologies such as Fiber, that are easier for them to support. CU*Answers will pass along price increases on MPLS lines to you as they occur. Transitioning to a VPN can be a way of controlling cost increases at your credit union.
How long does it take before MPLS charges roll off my invoice?
Please allow 90 days from the date we order your circuit disconnect for the MPLS charges to be removed from your invoice.
Do I need to fill anything out to complete my VPN order?
Yes. After ordering, please download and complete the form found at this link:
https://www.cuanswers.com/pdf/vpn-only-signup-for-new-credit-unions.pdf
If you have questions, the assigned engineer will help you complete the form.
Send completed forms to helpdesk@cuanswers.com.
