Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for automatic configuration and management of a virtual private network operating over a public data network, and a method and apparatus for delivery of the configuration parameters to client interface equipment participating in the virtual private network. The system defines allowed connections between client and server gateway devices, and the parameters associated with the virtual private network. The system defines methods and apparatus for automatic startup, configuration, and shutdown of nodes of the resulting virtual private network based on factors such as the presence of a configuration carrier device. The present invention also describes a class of pseudo-interface mechanism that can hide the complexity of the underlying system from client devices incorporating the present invention, via a conventional network device interface.