VPNs and their contribution to the business world

Today, everyone is using computers more and more in everyday life as well as in companies. There is therefore an upsurge in piracy and acts of fraud on the Internet. It is therefore becoming important for citizens and organizations alike to protect themselves against the increase in these illegal actions. One way that is often used and promoted is by using a VPN.

I. What is a VPN?

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates a private network connection between devices over the internet. A VPN is used to encrypt communications but also to hide the user’s IP address. It is also possible for it to generate a new IP address using the VPN. This address can also be geolocated in a different country or region. This makes the connection less traceable.

For businesses, VPNs offer several benefits: Protection of sensitive data: Thanks to data encryption, interception and unauthorized access are prevented. Secure remote access, employees can connect to company servers from anywhere. For example, a subsidiary can connect to the parent company’s intranet faster and more securely. Additionally, some companies require the addition of a VPN to access their internal network. Reducing the risk of cyberattacks: VPN connections limit vulnerabilities in Wi-Fi networks. Wi-Fi, especially public Wi-Fi or with a low level of security, creates a risk for users that the VPN, through its encryption, decreases.

Why are VPNs essential for businesses?

In the professional world, data protection is a crucial issue. Businesses need to manage sensitive information such as customer data, financial documents, intellectual property, and internal projects. A leak or theft of this data can lead to hazardous consequences, including financial losses, loss or diminishment of customer trust, and penalties for offending the company or individual. These sanctions are governed by the GDPR, which ensures that data protection systems are compliant. Having a VPN is therefore an effective solution to guarantee the security of communications.

II. What are the concrete applications of a VPN in business?

1. Offer more secure teleworking

Since the lockdown and the COVID-19 crisis, teleworking has become a frequent practice in many companies. However, remote work exposes employees to risks regarding cyber-safety. These risks are especially present when the user uses public Wi-Fi. To be able to securely connect to the company network and protect the data exchanged between the company server and the employee’s device, the employee can use a VPN.

2. Improve the prevention and protection of cyber threats

The main threats that can occur online are mostly cyberattacks, such as data interception attacks or the installation of malware on a device. By encrypting communications, the VPN prevents data from being intercepted during an exchange.

3. Allow members of the organization to connect remotely

Firms with multiple locations or branch offices (which may be in other countries) may experience difficulties when connecting. To facilitate collaboration and data sharing securely, companies often use VPNs that allow for the creation of a secure network between separate locations.

4. Comply with regulations

Many regulations, such as the GDPR, governing data management in France and Europe, require companies to protect personal data. Using a VPN helps businesses meet these requirements by ensuring the privacy of communications and the safety of the information exchanged.

Adding a VPN to your corporate network has several advantages:

·       Encryptions of browsing data

The main advantage of a VPN is the encryption of the data transmitted. This means that even if the communications are intercepted, they remain unreadable without being in possession of a decryption key.

·       Secure access to internal resources

Businesses can limit access to their internal servers to only users connected through their VPN. This prevents unauthorized access and strengthens the security of IT infrastructures.

·       Reduced infrastructure costs

VPNs allow businesses to reduce the costs of setting up physical infrastructure. For example, instead of having dedicated lines to connect offices, a VPN uses the existing internet infrastructure. By using these methods, the internet network is secured without the need for external elements.

·       Increase employee’s mobility.

With a VPN, employees can access company resources from any location, with the only requirement being access to the internet. This improves the mobility and flexibility of remote working.

·       Securing transactions and finances

Using a VPN is also a great way to protect the company’s financial transactions. Financial transactions are prime targets for hackers. By using a VPN, businesses protect their online payments and reduce the risk of fraud.

·       Access services that are restricted by country or region

Some companies need access to services or content that are geographically restricted. VPN helps bypass these restrictions by hiding the user’s real location. This can be done by changing the location of the IP address. For example, a company based in France may require that the only IP addresses allowed on its network are from France.

 Conclusion

Nowadays, technology has expanded a lot, and everybody uses it in their everyday life. This situation democratized hacking and created more defiance toward the evolution of technology. A straightforward way to reduce the hazard of innovative technology is by using a VPN. VPN are used by a lot of companies and more individuals tend to use it due to its simplicity and efficiency. It is in fact an effective way to enhance the security of your network. By using a VPN, you create a secure tunnel in which information and communications transit. This tunnel makes it harder for hackers and data stealers to take your personal data or access your communications. For these reasons, companies often use VPN to connect their databases with employees and subsidiaries.