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Written by: Kevin Gardner
According to experts, you can look at a VPN – virtual private network – as a type of secure tunnel burrowing its way from the device you are using to the sites you want to visit online.
When using a VPN, the first step is to connect to the VPN server. At this point, your device appears to be connecting from that location. The websites that you visit are then unable to access your actual location. Even if you are sitting in the same room as the server being used, websites will see your location as somewhere else in the world.
However, as a savvy business owner, you may wonder – do VPNs really work? The short answer is “yes.” If you are still on the fence about making this investment, keep reading. Here you can learn more about VPNs and the benefits they offer your small business.
Increased Security
You may have a business that does not require remote access or private tunneling to the network. While this may be the case, you may still share certain aspects with bigger businesses. For example, you are likely using cloud-based resources in the form of data or apps. Also, if you are not currently providing remote access, there is a good chance that users are asking for this.
With a VPN, you can gain secure access without the expense of investing in and maintaining the routine hardware needed yourself. With a VPN, you have a secure connection established between the network and user devices or any other resource they may log into. With a VPN in place, your business has an additional security layer to keep things locked uptight.
Access to Remote Data
When VPNs were first introduced, IT technicians provided the information, who then provided the information to anyone requiring remote access. This was needed because data and back-office apps were being stored there.
This model has been completely transformed, thanks to cloud computing. Today, all the cloud options available have eliminated the need for there to be a physical data center. The data and apps are not stored and managed through the cloud. Be sure to find a VPN service provider that offers your IT team access to custom user logins. This will let you see who is using the VPN, just like an in-house VPN would.
Receive a Workaround for Any Public Networks
With a VPN, you can access portals or websites securely from a public network. With the VPN, you don’t have to worry about your sensitive information being stolen or breached – even if you are using a network provided by the local coffee shop or library.
If you commonly work in these settings, you can simply connect to the VPN and ensure you have a private passage through the public network to ensure that your data remains safe and that it is not being observed or compromised by a type of “middleman” attack.
Enjoy Geographic Independence
If your business has workers who travel to countries that restrict access to the internet, having a VPN may be quite beneficial. With this, you can ensure your employees have access to the internet, just like if they were still in the U.S.
For some small businesses, this benefit may not seem relevant. However, if you have anyone who travels, it is something to consider carefully. Ensure you know the login and privacy policies of the VPN provider selected to know what they offer.
Finding the Right VPN Provider Matters
When it comes to VPN services, there are a lot of options to consider. While this is true, you can find several quality options to consider, regardless of where your business is located or how many employees you have.
By taking the time to get to know the options, you can feel confident you will see all the benefits mentioned here and others. Being informed is the best way to ensure the desired results are achieved.
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