Methods of evaluating access to Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) from alternate
access connections and for improving access to VPNs from alternate access connections
such as ISPs. The methods include downloading a set of tests through a network
backbone to simulate access to the VPN from the alternate access connection and
comparing the results of the test to benchmarks for the test of access to the VPN
from leased lines and modems. By obtaining comparisons of the tests and the benchmarks,
it is possible to determine the throughput of data through the VPN and tell the
customer how its access connections are affecting, among other things, the raw
data throughput. This allows the customer and/or the network service provider to
adjust the access connections to improve communications with the VPN.