Connecting satellite locations via the Internet

The AS/400 is notoriously known for a stable, rock solid business machine. 
 Many businesses that have implemented the 400 also have additional 
locations accessing its data, most likely via some sort of emulator or 
emulation such as PC5250 in Client Access.  My question relates to the 
connectivity of these additional or satellite locations.  To date, most of 
organizations I have seen using the AS/400 have their own private lines 
providing a secure network to transport their data.  Realizing the depth of 
this group, I was wondering if anyone has seen a trend to connect remote 
locations/satellites via the Internet.  The AS/400 has evolved to include 
various network capabilities, encryption, and is undoubtedly a secure 
platform if setup properly.

So, what's the verdict?? Private lines at sometimes unbelievably high costs 
(which are declining....slowly) or access to the Internet at each site 
reducing on going operational expenses.  I fully realize that private lines 
can be purchased with a QoS agreement guaranteeing service, which is 
something the Internet cannot currently provide.  But having said that, 
you'd likely be surprised how many businesses signed contracts without QoS 
agreements, essentially guaranteeing them nothing!!   I would be very 
interested in hearing from someone that actually connects their locations 
via the Internet.

I believe this topic is relevant to this group due to the configurations 
and precautions unique to the AS/400, not just the wide area network side.

Any insight would be appreciated

TIA

Gary





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