Your on-site computer network is considered private. In contrast, the internet is a public network.
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a service which can connect private networks together across public networks. Think of the VPN as a tunnel through the internet which you can use to bring remote devices together on one network.
VPNs have a variety of uses that can be helpful on both personal and professional networks. Here we will discuss specifically how this service can help a business.
Security
The most notable reason to your business should use a Virtual Private Network is because they provide an extra layer of security.
Although your on-site network should have a firewall and security software, adding a VPN to the mix will give you additional protection. This is accomplished because the VPN sends information through the internet instead of to the internet.
Privacy
Usually when you are on the internet, you are broadcasting certain information about the device you are using to the world.
A Virtual Private Network helps with additional privacy because, to the internet, it appears that your network is somewhere else. Instead of connecting to the internet through your IP address, you are technically connecting through the VPN’s IP address.
Remote Access
A VPN can be used to access you company’s files and data from a remote location.
This is done by installing a server, which is essentially the businesses main computer.
If you have your own server, you can make this the heart of your own Virtual Private Network. You and your employees can connect from anywhere with this set up. This is great for small businesses who work from home, employees who work on the road, or snowy days where it’s tough to drive.
Pricing
Although there are VPN companies whose services are available, for a business it is a wise decision to set up your own.
Luckily, setting up a VPN server can be surprisingly affordable. A small business can purchase a micro PC and install VPN software for as little as $200. Of course, this number can go up significantly depending on the needs and size of the company.
If you are considering installing a VPN server, please contact us as we would love to assist you in securing a remote network.
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Jason Mandresh
Jason does the Marketing and Sales for Priority IT Works. In addition to the Blog he assists with customer satisfaction and website design.