In an era where businesses are increasingly reliant on digital connectivity, safeguarding sensitive data against cyber threats has become paramount. Today’s cybercriminals are adept at exploiting vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to critical business information. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is an essential tool for businesses to encrypt their communications and protect their online activities from prying eyes. This article presents an expert review of the best business VPNs available, providing businesses with the security and reliability they need in a digital landscape fraught with threats.
1. Enroll
Selecting a suitable VPN plan for your organization involves evaluating several factors such as the size of your team, the nature of your business activities, and specific security requirements. Businesses of varying scales, from small startups to large enterprises, can find a tailored plan that fits their needs. Publicly available reviews and expert analyses often provide insights into the performance and reliability of different VPN services. It is imperative to choose a VPN that has a proven track record with robust encryption protocols like AES 256-bit, ensuring data security and privacy.
For instance, NordLayer offers an easy-to-use multi-network and cloud protection feature that appeals to both small and large organizations. Its advanced suite includes a threat and malware filter to block malicious phishing links, making it ideal for businesses that rely heavily on cloud services and require robust endpoint security. Other VPNs, such as Surfshark for Teams, provide app-based remote access with features like antivirus protection and real-time device scanning, useful for businesses with a mobile workforce.
2. Download the VPN Software
After selecting an appropriate business plan, the next step involves downloading and setting up the VPN software. Providers typically offer detailed instructions to guide users through the installation process, whether it is on cloud servers or local devices. This step is critical as it sets the foundation for secure business operations by ensuring that all devices within the organization are protected.
Some VPNs, like NordLayer, facilitate seamless site-to-site integration, making them beneficial for businesses operating across multiple locations. This allows for secure communication and resource sharing through cloud spaces. Another example is HMA VPN, which offers a flexible subscription model suitable for teams working remotely around the globe. Its extensive server network, optimized for high bandwidth, enables fast and secure file sharing across diverse geographical locations.
3. Access the Dashboard
Once the VPN software is installed, accessing the main dashboard or control panel is essential for managing the VPN and its connections. The dashboard serves as a centralized hub where administrators can oversee all activities, configure settings, and monitor performance metrics. This feature is particularly useful for businesses needing real-time insights into their network’s security posture and overall health.
For businesses requiring granular control over network access and user activities, Perimeter 81 provides an extensive control panel with access to event logs, enabling administrators to monitor and respond to potential threats promptly. Proton VPN also offers a similar monitoring panel where users can manage servers, switch networks, and configure private gateways, enhancing the overall security and efficiency of business operations.
4. Add Employees and Permissions
Creating user accounts and assigning permissions is a crucial step in ensuring that only authorized personnel can access the VPN. This process often involves registering employees using their company emails or work devices and setting appropriate access controls. Properly managed user permissions help mitigate risks by ensuring that sensitive information is only accessible to those with the necessary clearance.
For instance, NordLayer supports advanced features like multifactor authentication (MFA) and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), which verify and authorize devices connecting to the network. Similarly, Surfshark for Teams provides a centralized admin panel for managing team accounts, making it easy to send invites, remove users, and monitor devices. These functionalities are critical for maintaining strict security protocols and preventing unauthorized access.
5. Adjust Security Settings
Navigating through the settings section to configure advanced security features is an essential step to fortify your network. VPNs often come with built-in features such as a kill switch, split tunneling, always-on VPN, and access controls that need to be adjusted according to the business’s unique requirements.
NordLayer, for example, offers robust security features including split tunneling, allowing businesses to exclude specific applications from being routed through the VPN. Perimeter 81 goes a step further by providing web malware protection and always-on VPN, ensuring continuous security for all business communications. Properly configured security settings can greatly enhance the resilience of a network against sophisticated cyber threats.
6. Implement Across Network and Devices
The final step involves deploying the VPN across your network and devices, ensuring that all endpoints are covered. Establishing site-to-site tunnels and gateways facilitates secure communication between different branches of an organization. This comprehensive coverage is essential for maintaining the integrity of business operations, particularly for companies with a geographically dispersed workforce.
Businesses can send installation links or use mobile device management (MDM) tools to streamline the setup process on company devices. Employees using a remote access VPN can also directly download the VPN app on their personal devices. Twingate, for instance, offers a free starter plan for small businesses, allowing up to five users to protect their network with advanced encryption technologies.
Conclusion: Future Considerations
In today’s digital age, businesses are increasingly dependent on online connectivity, making the protection of sensitive data from cyber threats more crucial than ever. Cybercriminals have become highly skilled at exploiting weaknesses to access critical business information without authorization. This necessitates robust security measures, and one effective tool is a Virtual Private Network (VPN). VPNs are vital for businesses to encrypt their communications and shield their online activities from unwanted surveillance. By ensuring secure data transmission, VPNs allow companies to operate confidently without fear of breaches.
This article delves into an in-depth expert review of the best VPNs available for business use, highlighting the top options that provide the security and reliability companies require. Given the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, having a reliable VPN can significantly mitigate risks and fortify a business’s defensive measures. From advanced encryption to ease of use, the best business VPNs covered here offer essential features tailored to meet the unique demands of modern enterprises. Businesses equipped with these VPNs can better navigate a digital landscape filled with potential hazards, ensuring that their confidential data remains protected from cyber threats.
