This u-link cloud-based solution incorporates an intuitive Web-based interface (the u-link portal) to allow for easy configuration for the customer’s specific application. The u-link cloud is used as a meeting point, securely connecting the user’s PC running the u-link VPN software with the u-link-enabled security router. After the security routers have been added to the u-link portal, users can access network devices such as switches, programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and other Ethernet-capable automation devices for troubleshooting, maintenance or PLC program changes. The portal can be customized.