Why Do Small Businesses Need Remote-Access VPN Security?
With the increase in remote work, reports of cyber security attacks increased dramatically, so the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers regular guidance on how to protect against cybercrime targeting small businesses. That leaves many small or midsized businesses (SMBs) to grapple with common questions and how to implement suggestions. One common question is: Is it safe to share company data with employees who are working remotely? Data security is possible if companies take the proper precautions, which include tapping into the benefits of a virtual private network (VPN). The SBA and cyber security industry professionals advise SMBs to use a VPN.
A Few Scenarios to Keep You Up at Night:
- An accounting department employee is working in the comfort of their own apartment, feeling safe and cozy. Little do they know, a hacker in the coffee shop downstairs is grabbing your company files while sipping on a vanilla latte.
- Your sales manager is waiting at the train station. He is reading your company's Field Manager's Strategy Guide, a new document loaded with proprietary information. A few benches down the platform, a man is reading a newspaper. Or is he? Two days later, the new strategy guide is in the hands of your competitor.
- Your medical director is on a video conference with several pathologists discussing an experimental treatment. Simultaneously, a hacker in Kyiv is negotiating the price for your research to a lab in Wuhan. Are you feeling vulnerable yet?
To make matters worse, hackers increasingly breach government data and that of thousands of companies. It is evident that "off the shelf" antivirus and anti-malware software is no longer enough, especially when data is accessed beyond office walls. That’s why small businesses must make sure all their employees utilize remote access VPN security.
Q: Why should small businesses consider using a VPN for their operations?
A: A company VPN enhances cyber security by encrypting data transmissions, which is especially important when employees access company servers over public WiFi or work remotely. VPN security protects customer data, financial records and internal communications while building client trust and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
What is a Remote-Access VPN?
A virtual private network is your network within the network. Internet data traffic is encrypted and sent to a remote access VPN server. The VPN server instantly hides your IP address, identity and location while further encrypting your data, creating a secure and practically invisible virtual private network. Whether you and your employees are in the office, at home, on a laptop at the airport or on a cell phone in the woods, VPN access will provide them with anonymity and security wherever they can acquire a WiFi signal. Your company VPN is your own private and secure "Internet tunnel," allowing you to access your network incognito. All online company activities are funneled through the remote access VPN. The information is encrypted when sent and decrypted upon arrival. Without access to the VPN, anyone hacking into the tunnel will just see gibberish.
Q: How can VPN solutions for small business benefit remote or hybrid teams?
A: A company VPN allows remote and hybrid employees to securely connect to your network from anywhere, just as if they were in the office. This ensures consistent access to files, software and shared systems without compromising security. For businesses without large IT departments or enterprise-level security infrastructure, a VPN provides an affordable and scalable solution to protect remote work.
Benefits of Using VPN Solutions for Small Business
Beyond the business privacy and security benefits afforded by a VPN, other features include:
- Mobility: It goes wherever you go. If you have a signal anywhere in the world, you have VPN access
- Highly Secure File Sharing: Share files (company and personal) with others, knowing they are not subject to unwanted outside visibility or theft
- Virtual Anonymity: Your IP Address, identity and location are secure
- A Backdoor Pass: Get around blocks to restricted websites, filters, firewalls and links, especially while traveling in restrictive countries. This includes access to blacked-out events and discounts
- Secure Streaming: Outsiders will not be able to access your browser history and any internet activity you wish to remain private
- Surprisingly Affordable: VPN solutions for small business packages are relatively inexpensive
- Improved Overall Security: Reduce the risk to network data accessed outside your physical office
All businesses increasingly rely on technology in so many different ways that they must strive to keep up with the changes to technology and the security risks that accompany them. Many businesses are required by law to protect the personal and financial data they collect, especially medical and law practices, which have strict data compliance requirements.
Q: What are some practical steps a small business can take to implement a VPN effectively?
A: Start by choosing a reputable VPN provider that offers strong encryption, a no-logs policy and reliable customer support. Then, assess your company’s needs, such as the number of users, device compatibility, and server locations. Choose an appropriate plan, and make sure all employees are trained on how to use the VPN correctly and consistently.
Hackers continue to change their tactics, so businesses must do everything they can to stay aware of their new attack methods. The benefits of a VPN include a crucial security layer for any business, but especially those that access the business network remotely. Look for a VPN provider that will become a valued partner, offering not only an effective layer of protection but regular software updates, scaling the system as you grow and integration with your other cyber security measures.
Set up a call with your IT security provider to discuss VPN installation and to recommend a business-grade VPN product appropriate for your company.