How to find the right VPN service for your business

When it comes to security in a business, the most reliable networks are vital. Having online privacy and the freedom to discuss sensitive topics within your business allows it to grow without the risk of hackers or leaked information. Originally introduced for individual use, these services have become vital in an age where everyone has such broad knowledge of the internet. This guide will help you to identify the right type of VPN service for your business.

What is a VPN Service?

Defined as a Virtual Private Network, VPN’s offer a way to create a secure connection with another network via the Internet. Essentially, this allows you to browse and use the internet without anybody being able to hack into your connection. They give you anonymity by masking your IP (Internet Protocol) address, making online activity near untraceable.

How does it benefit your business?

Hacking is one of the most detrimental things that can happen to your business. Those with the right experience and time can find a way through the strongest online connections to gain access to the information you want to keep secret the most. Information from Risk Based Security report that, as of December 2019, hackers had accessed 7.9 billion consumer records within that year. This equated to 5,000 data hacks within 12 months.

Preventing this from happening is something that should take priority. And, Virtual Private Networks are a practical way of doing this. Some of the benefits include:

Heightened security

It doesn’t matter how many firewalls or antivirus protection you have in place, the most experienced hacker will be able to bypass these. Antivirus systems are only effective when they are kept up to date and are unable to protect against many malware found out there now. VPN networks create end-to-end encryption for all of the information that is passed throughout. This protects information, communications and anything else you wish to keep private.

Safe sharing of data

It is important that information is shared - both between employees and with designated contacts outside of the business. VPN networks allow you to encrypt this data before it is sent, offering a layer of protection during transit. In order to access the information, the recipient will need to have access to the encryption key.

Enables remote access

For employees that travel regularly, being able to access data and information remotely is so important. It allows projects to continue as planned, minimises downtime and helps support the growth of businesses throughout the UK or internationally. Business VPN services allow you to access the information hosted on a secure server. With end-to-end encryption, the information is secure and available for you to use as needed.

Access blocked websites

When travelling internationally, Internet blocks and bans can present roadblocks to business growth. While a website may be accessible from your home country, it may not when visiting other offices or contacts. With a business VPN service, you can select a location which allows you to bypass this censorship and proceed with work.

What are the different types of VPN service?

Depending on your needs and the equipment available, there are several VPN services available.

Remote Access VPN

Specifically designed for those working away from the office, remote access VPNs provide high-level encryption that protects information shared. They feature a tunnel that connections the businesses network and the remote user. This is private, regardless of whether the user is doing so in a public location. This form of VPN has largely been replaced with Cloud VPN for several reasons. Past users are a security problem, minimising control over data sharing.

IPSec (Internet Protocol Security)

IPSec’s are used to set up VPNs. They authenticate and encrypt data, allowing it to be sent between two computers using an Internet Protocol network. In these systems, both endpoints are encrypted and provide a secure network that is near impenetrable. These systems offer IP security.

Site-To-Site VPN

This type of VPN is set up between two or more networks. They are a permanent connection which is generally used between offices as an encrypted link. So, if you have two bases situated in different countries, this is an ideal choice. They are a popular alternative to private MPLS circus and can be used frequently.

PPTP (Point-To-Point Tunneling Protocol)

This is one of the older and most widely-used VPN’s and was originally created by Microsoft for the needs of their dial-up networks. They have a lower encryption standard, which allows them to achieve faster speeds. In contrast to existing technology, PPTP networks aren’t a secure option anymore and other alternatives will prove to be more suitable for businesses.

How to identify the right service for your needs

Whether you’re well versed in designing networks or find the lingo confusing, identifying the right VPN can be a challenge. Here are a few things we think you should focus on during this decision.

Ease of use

Regardless of their skill set, your employees need to be able to access and utilise your chosen VPN with ease. Most networks are set up to allow this while ensuring all information remains strongly encrypted.

Number of users

At this current point and in preparation for scaling, how many users do you expect to need access to this VPN? Some networks are more capable of handling multiple users at any given time - like Site-To-Site VPNs. Alternatively, there are others that can only support 1 user at any given time while actively kicking out anyone else who attempts to access. This puts the security of your data at threat. You want to consider both how many users need access now and how this number may grow as the business develops.

Speed

Regardless of the number of people using your chosen VPN, you want it to be able to achieve workable speeds. If the connection continually skips, jolts or cuts out, it will potentially impact on downtime and productivity in the workplace.

Secure remote access

If employees need access to information or communication channels when outside of the office, you need to ensure that remote access is available. You need a network to provide this with appropriate speeds and encryption levels that won’t hinder the jobs at hand.

Understanding and choosing the right VPN system for your business should be done with the expertise and support of an experienced network specialist. Here at Adept Networks, we’re on hand to help you with this project. Get in contact with our team today for more information.