With alarming stats about the increase in cybercrime, you might wonder if your company should invest in a virtual private network, better known as a VPN? Once only a security tool used by tech nerds and those wanting to access geo-restricted entertainment, this security tool has gained popularity with businesses across many sectors, especially those with work-from-home employees. Yet, this technology is often misunderstood and underutilized – 71% of workers still report that although they have a VPN, they still neglect to use it. There are also things that it can and cannot do. Here’s what you need to know…
In this age of digital transformation and work-from-home (WFH) arrangements, data security and data privacy should be top concerns for businesses. Cyber attacks have increased, with over 40% of small businesses already experiencing hacker attempts, and company IT systems have become more vulnerable to outside infiltration because of our increasing reliance on technology and a more globally widespread workforce.
In fact, this digital evolution is happening so fast, 93% of IT pros report challenges with maintaining data privacy, and a virtual private network could be a useful tool in the fight to keep your company data safe. You might well ask, what IS a VPN and how can it be useful for my organization?
The Skinny on this Security Tool
A virtual private network uses software to create a secure, virtual “tunnel” between your device and your data systems. This encrypted connection basically hides your device’s location (your IP address) by routing it to a remote server run by your VPN provider. This tricks websites into thinking you’re browsing from a different location, while your connection is kept secure by turning all your browsing data and internet traffic into a kind of gibberish that even your internet service provider can’t translate or access.
This helpful security tool can also “scan” devices for any hacking attempts or malware (malicious software), which means it can guarantee a safe and secure internet connection for your employees, especially those who WFH, even if they use public Wi-Fi in coffee shops or hotels.
Sounds neat, right? Ask us about our IT services and recommendations for virtual private networks, antivirus, antispam, system backups and disaster recovery plans.
What a VPN Can Do
Before you go shopping, though, here’s a summary of what it can do for businesses…
- Create a single point of access to your company data, making outside infiltration challenging;
- Keep your online activities hidden from hackers & internet service providers (ISP);
- Encrypt data sent and received through company data systems;
- Allow you to access region-specific and geography-blocked websites;
- Mask your device’s IP address (device location);
- Hide data entered into websites;
- Make advertiser tracking more difficult.
What They Can’t Do
- It doesn’t guarantee 100% anonymity – human error is still the greatest danger;
- Not an instant fix. Employees have to understand how to use it – takes a little training;
- They don’t protect you from viruses hidden in files downloaded from the web;
- Sometimes they can slow down your internet connection;
- A VPN is only one small part of a total security solution.
Conclusion
Let’s not mistake virtual private networks for a total security solution. They are but one useful tool in your arsenal against cyberattacks. They should be one of many, that, layered with other security practices and resources, will allow you to rest easy when your employees work from home.
There are also a lot of providers offering different VPN solutions, and they can vary in effectiveness and price. It’s often best to consult with someone working in IT services, who can give you recommendations based on your company size, number of WFH employees and your data security requirements. Our Com Pro experts can certainly guide you toward the best IT solutions. They can also perform an IT security assessment that can help you spot any weaknesses in your WFH setup.
Not sure if your systems are 100% secure? Contact us to learn more about the advantages of working with Com Pro.