Information is key to every successful business. Whether you’re gathering customer information, creating new marketing plans, or reviewing finances, this data helps inform future decisions and uncover new opportunities in your market.
However, while many businesses focus on collecting data, many forget the importance of protecting it. Unfortunately, criminals now target businesses of all sizes to steal their information and defraud them in various cyberattacks.
Stolen data causes immense public embarrassment and can destroy a company’s finances. The average data breach cost in the US reached $9.48 million in 2023, which is expected to continue to rise.
But with new attacks emerging daily, how can you stay on top of new developments?
In this article, you will learn why a virtual private network (VPN) has become a cornerstone in helping keep your business cyber-secure. You will discover several of the critical benefits of using this tool and why it’s essential to integrate it across your entire business.
Understanding a VPN for a business environment
A virtual private network (VPN) is a cybersecurity tool that encrypts and secures your internet connection. Think of it like a shield, protecting the contents of your online activity from prying eyes.
No matter what activity you’re involved in, whether sending or receiving files, working directly with online software, or simply joining a video call, there are several VPN pros for protecting your privacy.
Below are some of the essential reasons why employers should consider integrating the tool across their business:
Encryption of sensitive data
One of the primary reasons why a VPN has become an essential security tool is its excellent encryption abilities. Information, files, and other data that are sent and received are scrambled in transit.
Even if someone intercepts the information in transit, a hacker cannot decipher the contents or monitor your actions, rendering it useless. A VPN can give you peace of mind when working on particularly sensitive information, including financial records and customer information.
Moreover, your day-to-day online activity is kept private, too. A VPN not only encrypts your online data but also hides your IP address. This means websites cannot track your location or browsing activity. That said, it’s essential to use a VPN that operates a ‘no logs policy’ so the providers themselves cannot track your activity.
Defence against cyberattacks
Another critical reason a VPN has become a cybersecurity game-changer is its ability to repel cyberattacks. Many providers offer various built-in security tools that help bolster your security.
Threat protection technology, for example, can pre-emptively block malicious websites before you click on them. Some VPNs can block intrusive advertisements, flag suspicious attachments, and scan files before downloading to protect you from a potential malware infection.
In addition, a VPN can help protect you when connected to public Wi-Fi networks, which ordinarily have little to no privacy protections. Hackers often monitor these networks and attack vulnerable devices. A VPN can ensure you keep your privacy when connecting to these hotspots.
Protection for multiple devices
Every business is surrounded by smart technology, from virtual assistants to smart TVs, watches, tablets, and phones. Experts estimate that by 2030, there will be over 29 billion IoT devices worldwide.
While these small devices can help improve our work, they can also introduce risk to the office. New devices that connect to the internet could be an entry point from which a hacker could attack. These devices often lack an interface, meaning you cannot install proper security software.
Thankfully, a VPN can also safeguard IoT devices. When installed on a router, a VPN encrypts the internet connections of every device on the network. This way, you can embrace IoT devices without increasing the likelihood of a cyberattack.
Adherence to data privacy and compliance
Data protection has become an enormous concern for governments worldwide. As such, businesses must recognize and adhere to legislation in different jurisdictions where their customers are based. Or else they risk severe penalties and reputational damage.
Because it protects your business from potential data breaches, a VPN can be a simple but effective way of ensuring compliance with data protection. And more and more government organizations recognize and embrace the technology.
For example, the European Union, which introduced the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), recommends a VPN as a way of “improving the level of security” in data protection for organizations.
Secure Remote Access
Finally, a VPN can help businesses adopt the benefits of remote working. Employees can work on any material from anywhere in the world without compromising their cybersecurity. Also, a premium remote access VPN can help you protect against unauthorized users by ensuring customized access.
Remote access allows employers to tap into a global talent pool and netting them a competitive market boost. It can help improve business efficiency by hiring employees in brand-new locations allowing you to enter new markets, build a comprehensive network of connections and skill sets, and seize new opportunities.
Protect your business with a VPN
A VPN can be the best line of defense against rising cyber threats. It balances security, privacy, and affordability for businesses of any size.
Besides that, a VPN can open your business to fantastic opportunities. This includes hiring talent, entering new markets, and embracing new technology that otherwise might be a huge liability. By integrating a VPN throughout your business, you’ll be able to seize new opportunities online without compromising your security.
Stacey Wonder is a freelance blogger from California. She usually writes on educational topics, career, self-development, and writing. When not busy with her projects, Stacey creates detective stories. She dreams to become a well-known writer one day.
