Top Corporate VPN Solutions for Small Business Explained
In today’s digital landscape, remote workers and businesses face increasing challenges in protecting sensitive data. With the rise of cyber threats, secure access to network resources has become essential. This is where reliable tools come into play, offering advanced security features to safeguard your operations.
Experts with over a decade of experience in testing VPN services have identified top providers that cater to modern needs. These tools not only protect public WiFi use but also enable seamless access to critical resources. For enterprise environments, advanced features like multi-hop access and Zero Trust architecture are setting new standards.
With the average cost of a data breach reaching millions, investing in the best VPN is no longer optional. It’s a necessity for employees and businesses alike. This guide will help you navigate the options and choose the right solution for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Secure remote access is critical for protecting sensitive data.
- Expert recommendations highlight top providers with advanced features.
- Multi-hop and Zero Trust architecture enhance security for enterprise use.
- Public WiFi protection and resource access are key benefits of VPNs.
- Investing in reliable tools helps mitigate the risk of costly breaches.
Why Small Businesses Need Corporate VPN Solutions
Data breaches are costly, making robust security measures essential for businesses. According to IBM’s 2023 report, companies with fewer than 500 employees face an average breach cost of $3.31 million. This highlights the need for advanced tools to protect sensitive data and ensure secure remote access.
Enhancing Security and Privacy
Encryption plays a critical role in preventing man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks, especially on public WiFi. Tools like NordLayer offer always-on protection, ensuring employees stay secure even if they forget to activate the service. With speeds of up to 237 Mbps, it balances security and performance.
Compliance with regulations like HIPAA and PCI-DSS is another key benefit. Providers like OpenVPN meet SOC 2 standards, ensuring businesses adhere to strict logging policies. This not only protects information but also avoids costly penalties.
Supporting Remote Workforces
With hybrid teams becoming the norm, secure remote access is more important than ever. Features like split tunneling optimize bandwidth by routing only essential traffic through the encrypted network. This ensures faster connections for employees working from home.
Kill switches are another must-have feature. They maintain security by cutting off internet access if the connection drops. Additionally, tools like Surfshark Alert monitor for data breaches, protecting employee credentials from being compromised.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Encryption | Prevents MITM attacks on public WiFi |
| Compliance | Meets HIPAA and PCI-DSS standards |
| Split Tunneling | Optimizes bandwidth for remote work |
| Kill Switch | Maintains security during connection drops |
| Breach Monitoring | Protects employee credentials |
Key Features to Look for in a Corporate VPN
Choosing the right features can make or break your security strategy. Modern tools offer advanced functionalities to protect sensitive data and ensure seamless operations. Let’s explore the essential features that set top providers apart.
Split Tunneling and Kill Switch
Split tunneling is a game-changer for balancing secure and regular traffic. It allows users to route only essential data through the encrypted connection while accessing other resources directly. This optimizes bandwidth and improves speed, especially for remote teams.
The kill switch is another critical feature. It automatically cuts off internet access if the connection drops, preventing data leaks. This is particularly vital for industries handling financial or healthcare information.
Remote Access and Data Encryption
Secure remote access is a must for hybrid workforces. Tools like OpenVPN and WireGuard offer robust data encryption to protect sensitive information. WireGuard provides faster connection speeds, while OpenVPN is known for its reliability and compatibility.
Multi-hop encryption, available in providers like NordVPN, adds an extra layer of security by routing traffic through multiple servers. Authentication methods like SAML and SSO integration streamline access for global teams.
NordVPN: Best Premium Features for Small Businesses
For companies prioritizing advanced security, NordVPN stands out as a top choice. With its robust features, it ensures secure access and data protection for modern enterprises.
Multi-Hop Connections and Tor Access
- Double VPN routes your traffic through multiple countries, adding an extra layer of encryption.
- Onion Over VPN combines Tor and VPN technologies for maximum anonymity.
- 30+ dedicated servers optimized for tasks like banking or API access.
Pricing and Subscription Options
- Core Plan: $11 per user per month (basic business features)
- Enterprise Plan: $5 per user per month (advanced tools, 40% discount for 50+ users)
- 30-day free trial
- 24/7 priority support included
| Plan | Cost per Month | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Core | $11/user | Basic business features |
| Enterprise | $5/user | Advanced tools, 40% discount for 50+ users |
Other highlights:
- Threat Protection Pro blocks ads and malware.
- 6-device limit per user (vs. Surfshark’s unlimited policy).
Other Top Corporate VPN Solutions Compared
Exploring alternative tools can help businesses find the right fit for their needs. Each option offers unique features:
TunnelBear: Ideal for First-Time Users
- Known for simplicity and ease of use.
- Free plan offers 2GB of data.
- Paid plans start at $5.90/user/month.
ExpressVPN: Global Coverage
- 94 server locations across countries.
- Ideal for globally distributed teams.
- Offers 40% team discount and centralized billing.
Surfshark: Extra Security Features
- Surfshark One bundle: antivirus + VPN for $2.49/month.
- Good value for added security.
OpenVPN: Zero Trust Architecture
- Implements device posturing.
- CloudConnexa plan: $7 per connection/month.
- Designed for enterprise-grade security.
