How to Choose the Right VPN to Boost Protection Against Cyberattacks
Public Networks Pose Security Risks – Switch to a VPN for Enhanced Protection
Many businesses rely on public networks to reduce costs and allocate resources elsewhere. However, using public Wi-Fi exposes your organization to significant security risks. Network providers or malicious actors on the same network can monitor activity, gaining access to sensitive customer data, emails, and critical files. This can lead to data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage.
For example:
- Sensitive information might fall into the wrong hands, jeopardizing client trust.
- Unauthorized access to bank accounts, credit cards, or internal resources could result in severe financial consequences.
Every time an employee connects to a public network, your business is at risk. To mitigate this threat, switching to a Virtual Private Network (VPN) or Secure Global Network (SGN) is essential. These tools provide online anonymity and encryption, shielding your operations from prying eyes.
However, not all VPNs or SGNs are created equal. Choosing the right one requires careful consideration of key factors to ensure maximum protection.
This article outlines 10 critical factors to help you select the best VPN or SGN for your business needs.
Factor #1 – Location
The location of your VPN or SGN servers matters for performance and functionality:
- Proximity matters : The closer the server is to your business, the lower the latency and the smoother the browsing experience. Always choose the nearest server for optimal speed.
- Geographic access : If your team needs access to region-specific content (e.g., UK-based research), select a server located in that country to bypass geo-restrictions.
Factor #2 – Price
While free VPNs or SGNs may seem appealing, they often compromise on security, speed, and privacy:
- Free services may log your activity, bombard you with ads, or limit data usage.
- Invest in a paid service that offers robust features, better server coverage, and stronger encryption to protect your business.
Factor #3 – Device Compatibility
Ensure the VPN or SGN supports all devices your team uses, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, and desktops:
- Cross-platform compatibility ensures seamless operations across multiple devices.
- Look for solutions that allow simultaneous connections for all team members.
Factor #4 – Capacity
Evaluate the platform’s capacity to handle your business’s data needs:
- Check the data allocation limits to ensure it can support resource-intensive tasks.
- A higher number of servers indicates better performance and reliability, especially during peak usage times.
Factor #5 – Protocol Support
Protocols define how your device connects to the server and impact both speed and security:
- OpenVPN : Open-source, highly secure, and compatible with firewalls.
- WireGuard : Faster and modern, with strong encryption.
- Avoid outdated protocols like PPTP , which are less secure. Choose a provider that supports advanced protocols like AES-256 encryption for maximum protection.
Factor #6 – Data Logging Policies
Understand what data the VPN or SGN logs, as this impacts your privacy:
- Some providers log session times, IP addresses, or even browsing activity.
- Opt for a service with a strict no-logs policy and transparency about data collection.
- Verify the provider’s reputation through independent audits or reviews.
Factor #7 – Availability of a Kill Switch
A kill switch is essential for maintaining privacy if the VPN connection drops:
- It immediately blocks internet access, preventing your real IP address from being exposed.
- This feature ensures no unencrypted data is transmitted during connection interruptions.
Factor #8 – Updates
Regular updates ensure the platform remains secure and efficient:
- Check how frequently the provider releases updates to patch vulnerabilities and improve performance.
- If the update frequency isn’t clear, review the app store for recent updates to gauge their commitment to maintenance.
Factor #9 – Centralized Management
For businesses, centralized management simplifies control over network access:
- Role-based access : Restrict users to only the segments of the network they need for their roles.
- IP whitelisting : Allow only verified IPs to access corporate resources, enhancing security.
- IT administrators should have full control to manage accounts, monitor linked devices, and enforce policies.
Factor #10 – Customer Support
Reliable customer support is critical for resolving issues quickly:
- Ensure the provider offers multiple contact methods, such as phone, live chat, and email.
- Test their responsiveness and read customer reviews to verify the quality of their support.
- A responsive support team can help restore connectivity during outages or troubleshoot technical problems.
Safeguard Against Cyberattacks With a Bulletproof VPN
The digital landscape is fraught with risks, especially for businesses relying on public networks. Data breaches can occur at any moment, giving competitors an edge and damaging your reputation.
Switching to a Virtual Private Network (VPN) or Secure Global Network (SGN) is one of the smartest investments you can make to protect your business. These tools encrypt your data, mask your IP address, and shield your operations from prying eyes—ensuring your sensitive information stays secure.
To maximize the benefits of your VPN or SGN:
- Choose a provider with robust security features , including strong encryption protocols, a no-logs policy, and a kill switch.
- Ensure reliable customer support for quick issue resolution.
- Select a solution that aligns with your business’s specific needs and configurations.
While a VPN or SGN is a critical step, it’s equally important to address other potential cybersecurity vulnerabilities. A comprehensive approach ensures all aspects of your digital infrastructure are protected.