A Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PTTP) is a networking standard that is used when connecting to a Virtual Private Network (VPN). VPNs are a way to create online privacy and anonymity by creating a private network from a public internet connection. This is often used by users who work remotely that need to connect to an office network securely.
Nowadays, PPTP is considered obsolete for use in VPN’s because of its many known security deficiencies. Nevertheless, PPTP is still in use in some networks.
The phrase Point to Point refers to the specific type of connection created by the protocol. It allows for one point (user’s device), to access another specific point (user’s office network), over the Internet. The “tunneling” part of the term refers to the way one protocol is encapsulated within another protocol. In PPTP, the point-to-point protocol (PPP) is wrapped inside the TCP/IP protocol, which provides the secured Internet connection. Even though the connection is created over the Internet, the PPTP connection creates a direct link between the two locations, allowing for a secure connection.
Source: TechTerms
Related Terms: Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), Two-Factor Autthentication, Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Related Readings: What Is A VPN Protocol And Which One Should You Use?
Finally, in all cases, it is critically important, yes this cannot be understated, critically important to pair all remote access into your environment and your data with Two-Factor authentication. Do not enable remote access without it.