CHALLENGE
Most retail stores require VPNs for their network’s backup line, due to the large amount of data that is collected and transferred within most retail operations. However, VPNs can be quite expensive, especially if each retail store required its own individual network.
Tokyu Hands believed that they could build a business system that didn’t need a VPN, drastically cutting the costs of establishing network infrastructure. However, by not choosing to utilize a VPN, they would need to find another way to secure their data.
External access could be restricted server-side by using a closed network with a fixed IP, but it would be difficult to restrict access to only its own terminal. Plus, relying on a cellular line connected to a global IP address left each terminal vulnerable to various threats from the Internet.