VPN stands for Virtual Private Network and is a private network that connects remote users who are spread across public, unsecured networks, allowing them to securely share data and files. It works almost like a secure tunnel through public networks, and is created through data encryption and end-point authentication.
How does a VPN work?
When you connect to the internet normally, the data you transmit is unprotected, and can be seen by anyone, assuming they know how. With a VPN, your data goes through the VPN server before it connects to the web, which means that your data is encrypted and cannot be seen by anyone else.
Why should businesses use a VPN?
VPNs aren't just for individual use. They're immensely popular amongst businesses and corporations, and for good reason:
- One of the key reasons to use a VPN as a business is to prevent cybercrime. A VPN is one of the most effective tools for keeping your business secure, providing the security and functionality of a private network, they are an excellent way for businesses to secure their sensitive data when connecting to a remote data centre.
- Secure communications are another key factor. By keeping your employees' internet connection encrypted, you can protect your network from viruses and malware when your employees communicate over unprotected networks.
- VPNs provide a homogenous network, allowing workers to share resources uninterrupted. This is ideal for businesses with remote workers, as well as companies with multiple offices, as they'll be able to access your network while they're on the go or away from the office. In a very real sense, a VPN is an enabler for flexible working.
- Employee travel is also significant. If your employees travel on a regular basis, it's important that they are able to access the websites and services they need to do their job. Unfortunately, many countries have stringent internet restrictions which can make this impossible. A VPN can allow you to bypass restrictions by making your IP address appear as if it is coming from your home country.
- Finally, it's important to consider customer browsing. If you're providing customers with wi-fi (as in a coffee shop, restaurant, or any other type of business) a VPN is a good way to keep your customers protected.
How do I set up a VPN?
Setting up a VPN is simple:
- Connect to the (public) internet through your ISP.
- Find your IP address and note it down.
- Create a new VPN network. You can do this by clicking on the Start button and going into the Network and Sharing Centre. Next, you click Set up a new connection or network and Connect to a workplace. Then, select Use my Internet connection (VPN).
- Enter your IP address into the required field, as well as your username and password, and click Connect.
- At this point, your VPN connection will begin to set up.
To find out more information about our business grade internet access and private network offerings visit our networking solutions page.
