A virtual private network, or VPN, is a well-known means of connecting individuals to a business network and resources like shared files, printers, and programs. VPN enables business employees to connect their home computer to their corporate network via an encrypted tunnel, preventing harmful spying and cyberattacks.
With increasing online threats, it is now more crucial than ever to protect your online activity. Furthermore, as telecommuting and virtual offices become more common, employees are conducting business from all over the world, frequently using unprotected public networks in the process.
Using a VPN is an affordable and practical way of ensuring online security for businesses. First, let’s see how a VPN works.
How do business VPNs work?
A business VPN is a virtual private network connection used by businesses to link their remote workforces and branch offices to the apps, data, tools, and resources they need to perform their tasks.
VPN secures internet access by establishing a “virtually private” tunnel between a business’ network and the user, even if the user connects to the network over a public internet connection. Despite the fact that the network connection is public, the network traffic is encrypted, rendering it unreadable to any eavesdropper. Therefore, it reduces business worries about data manipulation or interception.
The main ways your business could benefit from a VPN
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Improved internet safety
People, software, and web browsers cannot obtain access to your connection if you utilize a VPN. This ensures that the data you provide and receive is secure and anonymous. Since all data passes over an encrypted tunnel that is impossible to decode while utilizing a VPN, it will secure the internet traffic from the prying eyes of hackers. Some VPNs can also identify malware in downloaded files and issue warnings about it.
In addition, every hacking attempt begins with an IP address. It will be impossible for hackers to hijack your device if they do not know your original IP address. A VPN can mask your actual IP address by assigning you a new IP address.
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Accessing files securely in public networks
You and your team can also use a VPN to surf the internet safely in public areas as well. With the increasing practice of remote work, some employees perform office work at a cafe or coffee shop, and sensitive business information might be stolen if they’re using public Wi-Fi.
Since a VPN filters away anyone attempting to access your device, you can safely access your professional or personal files. It establishes an encrypted tunnel via which your data transits safely.
According to Cybint, over 60% of businesses have been victims of cyberattacks. Using a VPN keeps your personnel off public networks, reducing the chances of an attack.
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Affordability
When given a choice between utilizing a VPN and investing in your company’s IT department, it’s apparent which option looks to be more expensive.
A VPN is an investment that is well worth the money. They are reasonable for any business, with many companies offering VPN solutions for businesses with prices being roughly $10 a month per user. It’s a cost-efficient, immediately effective, and highly worthy option.
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Business savings
Other than being affordable itself, a VPN can also help your business savings. For example, long-distance phone rates can be reduced with the use of a VPN. Instead of connecting to a company’s intranet through remote access servers and dial-up networks, you can connect via your local ISP access point.
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Unrestricted access to files
If your business has multiple offices or employees who are working remotely, chances are your teams use certain cloud-based services and organization apps to collaborate on projects. These programs may save your data, the data of your coworkers, and the data of your clients. VPN can secure the connection to such resources, ensuring the security of the data.
When your workers utilize VPN with their own devices, they will be able to access corporate data from anywhere they want. This means they won’t be restricted to working in the office, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that no matter where they go or what device they use, everything is safe.
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Low-cost setup and maintenance
VPNs don’t require any kind of physical infrastructure, nor do they necessitate the use of any additional software. To put it another way, all you need is a VPN subscription to utilize the service. New cloud-based VPN providers have made things a lot easier for businesses, with dedicated software to assist you in managing your connections and getting the most out of the product.
Boosting your business’ security doesn’t have to be time-consuming or costly; with a VPN, you can receive an immediate increase that’s simple to use.
