While firewalls and anti-malware software offer essential protection, they aren't sufficient to fully secure your data from cybercriminals. Fortunately, a virtual private network (VPN) can help bridge this security gap. This article explores how VPNs can bolster your business’s security and key factors to consider when choosing the right VPN for your needs.
The basics of VPN
A VPN employs encryption technology to establish a secure connection between your device and the internet. Encryption transforms your data into a coded format that is unreadable to anyone who intercepts it. This means that even if cybercriminals manage to capture your data, they won’t be able to decipher it without the encryption key, protecting your sensitive information.
Additionally, VPNs mask your location by hiding your IP address. When you connect to a VPN server, your device appears to be browsing from the server’s location rather than your own.
What are the benefits of VPN?
Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those found in coffee shops, libraries, and airports, are notorious for their lack of security. Data transmitted over these networks can be easily intercepted by cybercriminals. By using a VPN to encrypt your data, you can protect your systems on public networks.
VPNs further bolster your anonymity by masking your personal IP address, making it harder for anyone to identify and track your online behavior. Moreover, by connecting to a VPN server in your home country, you can access company networks or websites that may be restricted based on your geographic location even while traveling abroad. Alternatively, you can use VPN to access geo-restricted resources outside your home network.
How to choose a VPN provider
There are various factors to consider when selecting a VPN provider.
Service cost
While free VPN services are available, they often keep logs of your online activities or bombard you with ads. Investing in a paid service such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN is advisable because they offer an extensive range of server locations as well as configurations that enhance data security.
Server location
The location of a VPN's servers is important for two main reasons. Connecting to a distant server can result in slower speeds due to increased latency. Additionally, if you're trying to bypass geo-restrictions, it's crucial to connect to servers in the same region as the content you want to access. For example, to access research published in Canada, you should select a VPN with servers in that country.
Capacity
Check the data allowance provided by the VPN service. If your work involves extensive online activities, opt for a VPN with a high data limit to avoid slow internet speeds. Also, consider the number of servers available. More servers generally mean better performance, especially for data-heavy tasks.
Device compatibility
If you use multiple devices for work, such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones, then look for a VPN service that’s compatible with all these devices.
IP leak protection
Not all VPNs offer the same level of protection. Some might leak your IP address, compromising your privacy. Before committing to a VPN, use a free trial (if available) to test its security features. Then, visit a site like IP Leak to check if your IP address is exposed. If it is, look for a more secure VPN service.
VPNs are a flexible and reliable tool for protecting your online privacy and security. By carefully considering the factors outlined above, you can select a VPN service that aligns with your specific needs and provides a reliable layer of protection against cyberthreats.
Talk to us to learn more about VPNs and other cybersecurity solutions.