As remote work becomes the norm, securing your team’s online activities has never been more critical. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are essential for protecting sensitive company data, especially when employees access networks from various locations. Here’s a guide to the best VPNs to keep your remote team secure and productive.
Why Your Remote Team Needs a VPN
A VPN establishes a secure, encrypted connection between a user’s device and the internet, shielding sensitive data from hackers and unauthorized access.
Key benefits of VPNs for remote teams:
- Data Encryption: Prevents interception of data during transmission.
- Secure Public Wi-Fi Use: Protects employees working from cafes, airports, or other public spaces.
- Access Control: Ensures only authorized users can access company resources.
- Global Accessibility: Allows employees to securely access company systems from anywhere.
Top VPNs for Remote Teams
1. NordVPN Teams
- Features:
- Military-grade encryption.
- Dedicated IPs for better control.
- Centralized user management dashboard.
- Why It’s Great:
- Offers excellent scalability for businesses of any size.
- High-speed servers reduce latency during remote work.
- Best For: Teams requiring robust security and flexibility.
2. ExpressVPN
- Features:
- Industry-leading encryption protocols.
- 3,000+ servers in 94 countries for fast global access.
- Split tunneling to optimize bandwidth usage.
- Why It’s Great:
- Exceptional connection speed and user-friendly apps.
- Reliable for bypassing geo-restrictions, ideal for international teams.
- Best For: Teams that need speed and usability.
3. CyberGhost
- Features:
- Over 9,000 servers worldwide.
- No-log policy ensures data privacy.
- Automatic kill switch for added security.
- Why It’s Great:
- Affordable with strong encryption.
- Simple interface for non-technical users.
- Best For: Small teams looking for cost-effective solutions.
4. Perimeter 81
- Features:
- Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA).
- Seamless integration with cloud platforms like AWS and Azure.
- Single sign-on (SSO) support.
- Why It’s Great:
- Tailored for businesses with advanced network management needs.
- Focus on enterprise-grade security features.
- Best For: Large teams needing sophisticated access controls.
5. Surfshark
- Features:
- Unlimited device connections.
- CleanWeb feature blocks ads and malware.
- NoBorders mode for bypassing censorship.
- Why It’s Great:
- Budget-friendly without compromising on features.
- Great for startups and growing teams.
- Best For: Teams on a budget needing multiple device connections.
What to Look for in a VPN for Your Team
When selecting a VPN, consider the following:
- Security Features: Look for AES-256 encryption, kill switches, and no-log policies.
- Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface ensures quick adoption by team members.
- Speed and Performance: High-speed servers are crucial for productivity during remote work.
- Scalability: Choose a VPN that can grow with your team.
- Centralized Management: Business-focused VPNs often offer dashboards for managing users and devices.
How to Implement a VPN for Your Team
- Assess Needs: Determine the level of security and features your team requires.
- Choose the Right VPN: Evaluate options based on security, scalability, and budget.
- Onboard Employees: Provide clear instructions or training on installing and using the VPN.
- Monitor Usage: Use centralized management tools to ensure proper use and security compliance.
Conclusion
VPNs are a cornerstone of secure remote work, protecting your business from data breaches and cyberattacks. Whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, there’s a VPN solution to fit your needs. Invest in the right VPN to give your team the confidence to work securely from anywhere.