6 reasons why your business needs a VPN in 2022
7 min read
A business VPN lets remote employees securely access internal networks and creates a single shared network between multiple office locations. From activity monitoring to advanced cybercrime protection, here’s why your company should be using a VPN in 2022.
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Is a VPN good for business?
A VPN is essential for your business. Here are three brief points on how a VPN works and how it can help your business.
- A virtual private network is a tool that encrypts the data and internet traffic from any device connected to your internal network. Your confidential resources and company devices are better secured with an encrypted connection.
- Business VPNs like NordLayer are installed as an app under a single company subscription. Employees can simply install the VPN on their devices without complicated system changes.
- A VPN will simplify your company’s security, connect remote teams and suppliers to the company network. A business VPN will boost employee privacy, and protect their devices from malware.
6 reasons your business needs a VPN
1. Incredible security
Considering that even social media giants like Facebook can be hacked, it comes as no surprise that the #1 reason why every business should have a VPN is cybercrime. The range of modern online crime means that you have to be cautious at every turn: manage your passwords, sign out of your accounts, and protect your systems from viruses and malware, etc. The VPN server acts as a relay between the Internet and your computer. By encrypting your data, the VPN creates an extra layer of security, so your browsing activity can stay invisible to prying eyes.
Note: Bear in mind that not all VPNs have the same features. Look for one that offers reliable security protocols, such as OpenVPN or WireGuard, and has extra security features, such as malware or botnet blocking.
2. Connect remote employees
A VPN will not just protect your employees’ and company data, it will also help them safely access your company’s intranet for remote work. This is essential for companies that have multiple offices or remote employees who spend a lot of time traveling and using public Wi-Fi. A decade ago, hardware VPNs used to do this job perfectly, but now, businesses are looking for more flexible and scalable solutions such as software VPNs.
Note: VPN software like NordVPN can give your employees a dedicated IP address which can then be used from anywhere in the world so your data is protected and your company’s digital resources are easily accessible.
3. Geo-restricted content
If your employees go on regular overseas trips, they might also need to access other websites that are essential to their jobs, i.e., Facebook, Instagram or Gmail. However, many countries in the Middle East and Asia, especially those with authoritarian governments, restrict access to many popular websites that we take for granted. A VPN allows you to get around most of these restrictions, even if you’re thousands of miles away. Connecting to a server in your home country means that websites will recognize your IP address as if you’re home. As a result, you will have access to the contents allowed in your country.
4. Safe browsing for your customers
If you own a coffee shop or another business where you offer your clients free Wi-Fi, securing the network is also important. Otherwise, your clients may face the pitfalls of public Wi-Fi and their data could be exposed to hackers. Make sure that your router is configured so hackers don’t use it against you and try to log in to your customers’ devices. You can then configure a VPN on your router (or purchase a VPN-enabled router) that will provide your customers with an extra layer of security. It will definitely gain your clients’ trust and appreciation.
5. Threat Protection Pro
Corporations have lost millions in data breaches caused by malware — remember the Acer and Garmin ransomware attacks? Most malware is spread through phishing attacks, where criminals send infected links to employees in fraudulent emails. So your business VPN should always include threat protection.
Business VPNs like NordLayer are packed with helpful features like centralized billing, dedicated IP addresses, 24/7 support, and ThreatBlock. The ThreatBlock feature blocks access to malicious websites, and stops intrusive pop-up ads.
6. Unbeatable privacy and security for a few dollars
A VPN app can cost you as little as a few dollars per month/per user, so the service is accessible for any business. So consider getting a VPN for your small business as well.
A NordLayer business account offers you:
- Dedicated IP addresses (reserved for a single user or group use)
- A dedicated account manager
- 24/7 priority support team
- License transferability
- Centralized billing
- A single-user administrator account
Is there a difference between a commercial VPN and a business VPN?
Business VPNs like NordLayer can assist your business in ways commercial VPNs cannot. Here are some of the business features that NordLayer offers.
- Encrypted data with AES 256-bit encryption
- Comprehensive network management/security
- 2FA, SSO, and biometric authentication.
- Set user permissions to limit access to resources
- Get notified if company devices are jailbroken or prone to attack
- Protection from phishing, ransomware, and viruses
- Dedicated servers and private gateways
- User provisioning
Is it worth paying for a business VPN?
A business VPN makes network security a breeze and takes charge of tedious network management issues. Free VPNs can put your sensitive data at risk by using subpar encryption and by selling your data to third parties. Most business VPNs offer basic and advanced packages as well as custom packages built for specific needs.