A dedicated device, often referred to as a VPN concentrator, is specifically designed to create and manage VPN connections, providing secure access for remote users to a corporate network by authenticating users and encrypting data. A network switch is typically used to connect devices within a local network at the data link layer and does not manage secure tunnels. An access point offers wireless connectivity to a local network but does not have the functionality to manage secure remote connections at scale. A DSL modem provides internet access over telephone lines and is not designed for handling multiple secure connections.