A Guide to Small Business Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
With more employees working remotely and cyber threats on the rise, small businesses are reevaluating their approach to protecting sensitive data. One tool that’s become essential for businesses of all sizes is the Virtual Private Network (VPN).
At Sovran, we offer managed VPN services that take care of installation, updates, and monitoring, so you can focus on running your business while we handle the security.
Cybersecurity is a core focus for us. Learn more about what VPNs do, how they help secure your business, and what to look for when choosing the right one for your business.
If you’re interested in personalized assistance, fill out our contact form or call (651) 686-0515.
What Is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure, encrypted connection between a device and the internet. It builds a private tunnel for your data, protecting it from hackers, eavesdroppers, and unsecured networks.
For small businesses, a VPN offers:
- Data protection on public Wi-Fi
- Secure remote access to company files and tools
- Improved privacy for sensitive communications
- Compliance support for industries with data regulations
Whether your team works from coffee shops, client sites, or home offices, a VPN ensures your business stays protected behind the scenes.
How Does a VPN Work?
Here’s what happens when you connect to a VPN:
Secure Tunnel Creation
Once the VPN is activated, it creates an encrypted tunnel between your device (such as a laptop or smartphone) and a secure VPN server. This tunnel protects all internet traffic, such as emails and web browsing, from outside access.
This means anyone trying to snoop on your connection will see only scrambled, unreadable data.
Data Encryption
Before your data even leaves your device, many VPNs encrypt it using military-grade encryption protocols (such as AES-256). This ensures that even if someone intercepts your information, they won’t be able to read it.
For example, if an employee is working from a coffee shop and logs into your company’s file storage, that login info is encrypted end-to-end, protecting it from potential eavesdroppers on the same network.
IP Address Masking
When you’re connected to a VPN, your real IP address is hidden. Instead, websites and services see the IP address of the VPN server you’re connected to.
This adds a layer of anonymity and privacy, helping prevent online tracking and location-based targeting. It also provides an additional layer of protection against specific cyberattacks, such as DDoS attempts or IP-based intrusions.
Bypassing Unsecured or Restricted Networks
In some cases, public networks, such as those in hotels or airports, may block certain websites or expose users to a higher risk due to poor configurations. A VPN allows your employees to bypass these limitations and still securely access your company’s resources without relying on the integrity of the public network.
5 Key Benefits of VPNs for Small Businesses
1. Remote Work Security
VPNs ensure remote employees can safely access business systems without exposing data to risks on public or home networks.
2. Secure File Sharing
Employees can upload and download files securely from anywhere, without relying on risky email attachments or file-sharing platforms.
3. Protection on Public Wi-Fi
VPNs encrypt connections on public Wi-Fi, shielding your data from hackers at airports, hotels, or coffee shops.
4. Lower Risk of Cyberattacks
VPNs make it harder for cybercriminals to target your network, thanks to encrypted traffic and hidden IP addresses.
5. Support for Compliance
For industries such as healthcare, finance, and legal services, VPNs help organizations meet data protection regulations, including HIPAA and PCI-DSS.
Choosing the Right VPN for Your Small Business
Not all VPNs are created equal. Here’s what to consider:
- Business-Grade Security: Look for encryption standards like AES-256.
- Multi-Device Support: Ensure your VPN works on desktops, laptops, and mobile devices.
- Ease of Use: Choose solutions with simple interfaces for non-technical users.
- Reliable Customer Support: Access to technical help when you need it.
- Scalability: Your VPN should grow as your team expands.
Avoid free VPNs, as they often lack the security features businesses need and may even sell your data.
Protect Your Data with Sovran’s Help
A VPN is one of the most straightforward, yet effective steps you can take to secure your small business in a remote and mobile world. Some businesses attempt to set up VPNs in-house, but this can be time-consuming and complex, especially if you lack dedicated IT staff.
At Sovran, we offer managed VPN services that take care of installation, updates, and monitoring, so you can focus on running your business while we handle the security.
Ready to secure your remote team and simplify your cybersecurity strategy? Sovran is here to help. Contact us to schedule a consultation! Fill out our contact form or call (651) 686-0515 today and ensure your small business receives the protection it needs.
