When most people hear the term "VPN," their minds often jump to the consumer-focused services widely advertised online, promising privacy while browsing or the ability to bypass geographical restrictions on streaming platforms like Netflix. While those are indeed applications of VPN technology, the focus here is on a far more critical use case for businesses. We're not talking about accessing overseas entertainment; instead, we're diving into the world of secure network connectivity, exploring how Virtual Private Networks can establish protected pathways for your business data, link multiple office locations, and empower your remote and traveling workforce with secure access to essential company resources.

In today's interconnected world, a robust and secure network infrastructure is no longer a luxury for small businesses – it's a necessity. Whether you have multiple office locations, a remote workforce, or employees who frequently travel, ensuring seamless and secure access to your critical business resources is paramount. For years, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have been a cornerstone of security and connectivity for large corporate enterprises. Now, thanks to advancements in technology and the availability of powerful yet low-cost hardware, these same robust VPN capabilities are readily accessible to small businesses, offering a powerful and cost-effective solution to enhance your business operations.

(above) the GL.inet Brume 2, a high-powered, low-cost router that works well to provide VPN connectivity.

Let's explore some common scenarios and how they can benefit small businesses:

Site-to-Site VPNs: Bridging the Gap Between Locations

Imagine your business has two or more physical locations. A site-to-site VPN acts like a secure tunnel connecting these networks together over the internet. This creates a unified and private network, allowing seamless communication and resource sharing as if everyone were in the same office. Historically the domain of large corporations with dedicated IT infrastructure, setting up site-to-site VPNs is now simpler and more affordable than ever for smaller businesses.

Benefits for small business:

• Secure File Sharing: Employees in different locations can securely access and collaborate on shared files and folders stored on your central servers. No more emailing large attachments or relying on potentially insecure cloud storage for sensitive data.
• Centralised Resource Access: Access accounting software, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and other internal applications hosted at a primary location from any connected office.
• Unified Communication Systems: Integrate VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone systems across all locations, enabling free and secure internal calls.
• Simplified IT Management: Manage network resources and security policies centrally, reducing administrative overhead and ensuring consistent security across all sites.

Services you might need a site-to-site VPN to access:

• Shared file servers and network-attached storage (NAS) devices.
• Internal databases and business applications.
• Intranet portals and internal websites.
• Printers and other network peripherals.
• VoIP phone systems.

(above) Screen shot of a production mesh VPN linking three business sites. Details of public IPs and internal networks have been blurred for security purposes.

Remote User VPNs: Extending the Office to Your Team, Wherever They Are

In today's flexible work environment, remote work is increasingly common. A remote user VPN allows individual employees working from home or on the go to establish a secure connection to your business network. Their device (laptop, tablet, or even smartphone) essentially becomes a secure extension of your office network. While large companies have long equipped their remote staff with VPN access, the affordability and ease of use of modern VPN hardware and software now make this essential security measure easily attainable for small businesses with remote teams.

Benefits for small business:

• Secure Access for Remote Workers: Employees can securely access company files, applications, and internal resources from their home computers or personal devices, ensuring productivity without compromising security.
• Enhanced Data Security on Public Wi-Fi: When working from cafes, airports, or co-working spaces, a VPN encrypts all internet traffic, protecting sensitive business data from potential eavesdropping on public Wi-Fi networks.
• BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Security: If your employees use their personal devices for work, a VPN helps ensure that business data remains secure on those devices

Services your remote users might need a VPN to access:

• Email servers and internal communication platforms.
• Shared document repositories and project management tools.
• Customer databases and CRM systems.
• Remote desktop access to their office computers.
• Proprietary business software.

Roaming VPNs with Travel Routers: Secure Connectivity on the Move

For employees who frequently travel for business, a roaming VPN setup using a travel router offers a unique advantage. A travel router with VPN capabilities creates a secure Wi-Fi hotspot wherever the user is. Any device connected to this router automatically benefits from the VPN's encryption and secure tunnel back to the business network. Once a sophisticated setup primarily used by large traveling workforces, travel routers with integrated VPN functionality are now cost-effective and user-friendly, putting secure mobile connectivity within reach of small businesses with traveling staff.

Benefits for small business:

• Consistent Security Across Multiple Networks: Regardless of the hotel, conference center, or other public Wi-Fi network your employee connects to, their traffic remains secure through the travel router's VPN.
• Simplified Connectivity for Multiple Devices: Instead of configuring VPN software on each individual device (laptop, phone, tablet), the user only needs to connect to the secure Wi-Fi network created by the travel router.
• Enhanced Privacy and Data Protection: Protect sensitive business communications and data from potential threats on unfamiliar networks.

Services your traveling employees might need a roaming VPN to access:

• All the services listed under Remote User VPNs.
• Secure access to online banking and financial tools used for business expenses.
• Protection of sensitive information exchanged during online meetings and video conferences.

(above) GL.inet Slate AX travel router. With a fast internet connection, this unit delivers speeds that feel like you're sitting in the office.

Investing in a VPN infrastructure, whether it's site-to-site, remote user, or a roaming solution, is no longer just for the big players. Thanks to powerful and affordable hardware, small businesses can now leverage this long-established technology to enhance security, improve connectivity, and empower their workforce. By providing secure access to essential business services, you can foster collaboration, boost productivity, and ultimately safeguard your valuable data in today's dynamic business landscape.

The broad availability of high speed internet connectivity through services like the NBN and StarLink has enabled businesses to experience VPN connectivity that feels like local network connectivity.

Consider your specific business needs and explore the different VPN options available to find the best fit for your organisation. The peace of mind and enhanced efficiency that a well-implemented VPN solution provides are invaluable assets for any growing small business.

Remember, if you need a VPN for your business but were previously driven away by unreasonable costs, you can always reach out to AFSecure for help.