Currently, an enterprise security configuration that does not include a VPN is an aberration. Because of its effectiveness and simplicity, a VPN Pro is a solution for protecting corporate assets when connected to a public network.
In order to understand the features of a virtual private network for a clear cybersecurity positioning, let’s recall the benefits of a VPN for business.
What are the main advantages of VPN for enterprises?
VPN solutions offer many security benefits to organizations: it is a technology that provides secure Internet connections to remote users accessing corporate resources.
VPNs also establish data encryption that conceals ongoing data transactions.
In the context of potential data breaches, this is a sustainable and cost-effective solution that protects online browsing while being connected to a secure server that allows remote employees to perform their daily tasks. In general, enterprise VPN applications support the mobility of organizations that extend their reach outside the office.
However, VPN capabilities are not limited to secure tunnel connection and data encryption.
Enterprise Network Scalability
An enterprise VPN for telecommuting enables organizations to connect dispersed sites and remote workers through a unified network link, protecting them from exposure to an open Internet.
Using a VPN solves the logistical problems of network expansion by providing encrypted channels quickly and securely.
Preventing data throttling
An Internet Service Provider (ISP) typically enforces data caps for users who consume the limit of data they were intended to consume.
It can also be triggered by certain websites or Internet activities, which causes bandwidth throttling and limits further consumption. This action by ISPs does not prevent Internet users from browsing or consuming data, but Internet speeds are significantly slower.
The VPN avoids the disadvantages of this slowdown by hiding the visibility of data traffic from an ISP.
Multi-IP global presence
A VPN connects users to a public or private gateway and assigns a local Internet Protocol (IP) address, bringing users closer to the source they are trying to access.
The more servers used by VPN providers, the lower the latency.
In addition, assigning a new IP address for the endpoint allows the user’s device to access services that are usually geographically blocked.
Extending security
A VPN encrypts data traffic, separating it from public Wi-Fi and securing remote access to corporate assets, even from unprotected networks.
User authentication controls access to corporate resources to prevent unauthorized remote access.
A VPN also helps limit the exposure of sensitive information to cybercriminals, which can lead to phishing, credential theft and other questionable activities.
Enterprise VPN Solutions
NordLayer
- Dedicated account managers
- Two-factor authentication
- Dedicated IP
- User Manager
- Dedicated 24/7 support
- Scalable platform
- Dedicated Server
- Fast and Stable
- Cloud VPN
- Unlimited usage
Perimeter 81
- Dedicated account managers
- Two-factor authentication
- DNS filtering
- User Manager
- Dedicated 24/7 support
- Scalable platform
- Dedicated servers
- Stable
- Cloud VPN
- Unlimited usage
Disadvantages of a VPN
While VPN technology is beneficial for businesses, it’s hard to avoid the drawbacks that can affect the overall experience.
It is essential to note that the disadvantages are not as great as the benefits, but a business may experience a slight drop in connection speed to their network.
Proper configurations can help minimize latency, which is often considered a challenge and a disadvantage for some users.
Despite the potential connection slowdown and configuration issues, custom solutions from VPN benefits and technical support from the service provider can help overcome these obstacles.
What are the features to consider when choosing a VPN for business?
Once it’s clear that a VPN is needed to ensure online privacy and business anonymity, the technical aspects of the service are also important to consider when deciding which provider to choose.
Here are the main criteria to take into account when reviewing your VPN service provider considerations:
A high level of encryption
The most common encryption measure is the 256-bit AES key, which is known for its resistance to decryption and its high level of security. Other encryption keys, such as 128-bit or 192-bit, are not as secure.
Non-registration policy
The privacy tool is supposed to guarantee confidentiality. However, it is essential to verify that the service provider does not collect any information about the VPN users’ activity. The non-recording policy refers to the provider’s responsibility not to save and dispose of online activity logs.
Speed
One of the concerns about using a VPN is that it slows down the connection speed. Latency can become an issue, so pay attention to the VPN provider’s configuration options. End-to-end tunneling, streaming, or just looking for protection while browsing will have varying connection speeds.
Fixed IP
A dedicated enterprise IP address contributes significantly to speed because a direct connection to a VPN server does not waste time finding an available spot in a shared gateway. Fixed IP addresses are a practical decision for an organization that wants to group all its users in one place, making it easier to manage remote access and monitor traffic activity.
Adaptability
An enterprise Cloud VPN works on multiple endpoints simultaneously, allowing for uninterrupted connection to multiple devices. On a larger scale, compatibility with the entire enterprise infrastructure and tools is vital, especially if the technical direction is to move forward with cloud-based environments.
Centralized management
An all-in-one approach is the most advanced way to achieve effective and efficient operations. Choose a VPN service provider with centralized controls over user management and activity tracking. Monitor traffic performance and make changes as needed to control remote access to the corporate network.
Support
VPN as a Service allows you to depend on a vendor to deliver the product your business needs. Since the company is not required to hire qualified personnel, the responsibility of third-party support is to provide assistance that meets user expectations.
With critical data at stake, substantial help is crucial, even for small business VPN performance.
Pricing
Integrating the VPN into the company’s security infrastructure is an investment, and prices for an enterprise VPN can vary widely. Many providers offer different pricing plans to find what best suits your needs, so don’t hesitate to contact them. This is a custom service.
Additional layers of security for your business
Securing a corporate network is complex, especially if the organization is large or has growth aspirations.
The sheer number of remote workers increases exposure to public Wi-Fi, and unprotected smart devices threaten secure network connections. To maintain high levels of protection, introduce VPN and other systematic security framework upgrades.
The modern enterprise security framework relies on flexible, adaptable and consistent cloud-based solutions. The Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and the Zero Trust model are the most advanced and comprehensive solutions. These frameworks focus on mutually compatible security features that complement each other for the establishment of multi-tiered security.
The features of an effective security solution can be selected and merged according to the specific security needs of the enterprise. A combination of traffic filtering, user authentication, remote access control, threat prevention and security policy enforcement builds a robust network security system that is simple to deploy but complex for attackers to overcome.
