VPNs For Businesses with Remote Workers Travelling Overseas
With more company employees such as nurses, doctors, call centre representatives and freelancers or contract workers starting to work from home in a globalised world, there is a growing need for remote workers. The technological boom and the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated these trends.
Companies need to ensure their data is secured and accessible to remote workers, especially if they are travelling abroad. One of the key tools used to do so is a Virtual Private Network (VPN). For companies with remote overseas travelers, VPNs take on significant meaning.
What is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure, encrypted tunnel over the internet. This tunnel safely passes your information to the internet without revealing your IP address, making all your online activity nearly impossible to trace. VPNs not only safeguard data but also enable you to bypass geo-restriction which makes it a great way to work remotely and travel abroad.
Why Businesses Need VPNs for Remote Workers
Security Concerns
When your employees are working away from the office and logging onto free public Wi-Fi, they are exposing your sensitive business data to malicious hacking. With a VPN, you can be sure that sensitive business data is all protected. For example, in Italy you would look for migliori vpn services that secure your employees devices while overseas.
Data Protection
Confidential information like information of clients is serviced by businesses. A VPN can ensure that this kind of data is encrypted, and the risk of data breaches is thus reduced.
Access to Company Resources
Remote workers need to access servers and resources within a company’s network, which is a definitive no-no. VPNs enable remote workers to connect to company systems in a secure manner and keep the resources private from the internet.
Benefits of VPNs for Businesses with Remote Workers
Enhanced Security
VPNs secure a data link to protect it from viruses, malware, and spamming – essential for the smooth running of a business.
Improved Productivity
Remote workers can still access company resources securely, without fear that certain tasks cannot be performed as they have always been.
Cost Efficiency
This is why VPNs are an effective alternative to expensive private networks for secure communication.
Geographical Freedom
It means that, with the help of a VPN, an employee’s office is no longer in any one country, but wherever they happen to be since no piece of content or resource is geo-restricted.
Challenges Faced by Remote Workers Travelling Overseas
Unsecured Networks
Public Wi-Fi networks well-known among travellers can create a high risk for cyberattacks including business sensitive information.
Geo-Restrictions
Certain websites and services are restricted in various countries, hindering productivity for remote workers.
Slow Internet Speeds
Overseas internet connections can be slow, affecting the efficiency of remote work.
How VPNs Address These Challenges
- Securing Public Wi-Fi Connections: VPNs encrypt data on public networks, protecting it from potential threats.
- Bypassing Geo-Restrictions: VPNs allow users to change their IP address, bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing necessary resources.
- Optimizing Internet Speed: Some VPNs offer optimized servers that can improve internet speed, enhancing remote work efficiency.
Features to Look for in a VPN for Business Use
- Strong Encryption: Ensure the VPN uses robust encryption protocols to protect your data.
- No-Log Policy: A strict no-log VPN keeps your browsing data out of anyone else’s hands.
- Multi-Device Support: Pick one that allows users to be on multiple devices: employees will need it to work on laptops, tablets and smartphones.
- User-Friendly Interface: An easy-to-use and easily-understandable (UI) VPN interface makes it easier to use.
Top VPNs for Businesses with Remote Workers
Some of the best business VPN providers are NordVPN, ExpressVPN and CyberGhost; each provides slightly different features.
Comparison of Features and Pricing
- NordVPN: Strong security, no-log policy, supports multiple devices. Pricing starts at $11.95/month.
- ExpressVPN: Fast speeds, excellent security, user-friendly. Pricing starts at $12.95/month.
- CyberGhost: Affordable, robust security, supports multiple devices. Pricing starts at $2.75/month.
Choosing the Right VPN Service
Figure out your business requirements and find the best provider for the service when it comes to security, features and price.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
- Sign Up: Choose a plan and sign up for the VPN service.
- Download and Install: Install the VPN software on your devices.
- Configure Settings: Customize the settings to meet your business needs.
- Connect: Start the VPN and connect to a server.
Best Practices for Using VPNs
Use the VPN software, keep it up to date, and make sure that it comes with current security features.
- Educating Employees About VPN Use
- Regularly Updating VPN Software
- Train employees on the importance of using VPNs and how to use them properly.
- Monitoring and Managing VPN Access
- Regularly monitor VPN usage and manage access to maintain security.
- Case Studies: Successful Implementation of VPNs
Example 1: A Tech Startup
Another entrepreneur I interviewed took his small tech startup totally remote by having his employees work from abroad, using VPNs to stay connected. They were able to triple their productivity and work in more secure environments.
Example 2: A Global Marketing Agency
A global marketing agency introduced a VPN to allow its international workforce to have easy access to resources, helping the firm to improve cooperation across the globe.
Future Trends in VPN Technology
- AI and Machine Learning Integration
- Future VPNs may use AI to predict and prevent cyber threats, enhancing security.
- Quantum Computing and VPNs
- Quantum computing could revolutionize encryption, making VPNs even more secure.
- Common Misconceptions About VPNs
- VPNs and Internet Speed
Contrary to popular belief, VPNs can sometimes improve internet speed by optimizing connections.
VPNs and Legality
There is nothing illegal about using these VPNs, except for in a few countries. Obviously, it’s your responsibility to stay clear of prohibited substances or activities in your own country.
VPNs For Remote Workers Enhance Business Security
VPNs are a necessity for people doing business today, where many team members are geographically dispersed, and depends on the internet for immediate connections to customer and corporate services. VPNs offer several advantages to business users, who must manage teams of engineers working on their IT networks on a 24/7 basis, including in their own plants or customer facilities. Security is critical to these users, who must maximise employee productivity and maintain fast access to information. By selecting the most beneficial VPN for your own business, and putting it into proper practice following advanced VPN best practices, you will help keep your business data secure and accessible.
FAQs
What is the best VPN for business use?
Every business will have different needs when it comes to the best VPN, but NordVPN, ExpressVPN and CyberGhost are some that businesses often use.
How does a VPN improve security for remote workers?
A VPN is a tool that encrypts data and keeps you safe against cyberattacks during work.
Can VPNs be used on mobile devices?
Yes, most VPNs support multiple devices, including smartphones and tablets.
Are there any downsides to using VPNs?
Although VPN connections provide many advantages, they can also slow down internet connections and may require some learning to use.
How often should VPN software be updated?
It is important that a VPN software is updated regularly to include any modifications in security features and bug fixes.
