Best VPN for businesses in 2023 and some to avoid

Key Features:

Business vpn providers

Virtual private networks, or VPNs, create a private network across a public internet connection. They give you anonymity and privacy by hiding your internet protocol (IP) address, which reduces your digital footprint, and by securing and encrypting your connections. Think of the VPN as a secret tunnel between your device and the internet; nobody can see what you’re doing inside the tunnel except you and the person on the other end that you’re sending data to—not even your internet service provider. This means that users can send and receive information as securely as if they were directly connected to a private network. But why does your business need an enterprise VPN, or a corporate VPN?

When your users surf the internet on an unsecured Wi-Fi network, anyone else using the same network can tap into what they’re doing and access their browsing habits and private information. Firstly, by encrypting your users’ connections, a corporate VPN secures their online activity against anyone trying to access it without permission. Secondly, a private connection improves security across private networks when users are connecting via a public or insecure Wi-Fi router. This is a particularly useful feature for organizations with employees working remotely, either from home or in a role that requires them to travel. Thirdly, an enterprise VPN allows admins to set up granular access controls that restrict users from accessing areas of the network that they don’t need to. Some VPNs do this through internal gated networks, and some deploy it at an application level. A powerful corporate VPN may also come with built-in firewalls to protect against viruses, hacks, and other threats.

Large enterprises require a high level of security, sometimes for thousands of users at once. It’s important that a corporate VPN is able to cater to this demand, as well as give the organization the tools it needs to be able to deploy and manage its VPN and integrate it with other security resources.

In this article, we’ll explore the top ten enterprise VPNs, which are designed specifically to protect corporate web connections. Each of these offers different features, including varied device compatibility, scalability, central management, and activity management. We’ll give you some background information on the provider and the key features of each solution, as well as the type of customer that they are most suitable for.

The Top 10 Enterprise VPN Solutions Include:

Twingate

Twingate is a cybersecurity company that provides secure, remote access to corporate resources for distributed workforces, without sacrificing productivity. Their cloud-based platform enables IT to establish a software-defined perimeter and centrally manage user access to company applications, regardless of whether they are on-prem or in the cloud, without changing the existing IT infrastructure.

With Twingate, users can connect to a corporate resource via its FQDN or IP address without any user interaction needed. Twingate supports split tunnelling and intelligent routing to reduce the burden on an organization’s network and eliminate backhauling, ensuring fast and reliable connections. The platform’s ViPR technology handles authorization and routing decisions automatically, reducing the strain on IT teams. From the central management console, admins can provision and deprovision users, gain app-level visibility into user access, and configure granular access policies. Resource-level access policy customization enables organizations to enforce the principles of least privilege and zero trust security by limiting network access for potential hackers, even if they manage to compromise a user’s connection. Finally, Twingate offers integrations with leading identity providers like Okta and OneLogin to support single sign-on (SSO) across all user accounts for added security and usability.

Deployed in the cloud, Twingate offers three packages: Starter for individuals and small teams of up to five users, Business for up to 150 users with email support and more granular access controls, and Enterprise for an unlimited number of users with network analytics features and priority support. Customers praise Twingate for its lightweight, intuitive interface and ease of deployment. We recommend Twingate as a user-friendly solution for SMBs and mid-sized enterprises looking to provision their remote users with fast, secure access to corporate resources with ease.

Good Access

Good Access offers a cloud-based VPN solution designed for businesses. This service is a 100% Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform that provides remote access to resources, aiming to protect users, applications, and networks. Good Access allows businesses to quickly establish a VPN connection through a dedicated gateway that can be chosen from various global locations.

Good Access boasts features such as static IP whitelisting, secure web gateway to defend against online threats, split tunneling to control traffic routes, native mobile and desktop applications, and robust encryption protocols like IKEv2/IPSec and OpenVPN. Additional security measures include two-factor authentication for both the platform’s management interface and client applications. Furthermore, the Good Access control panel facilitates the integration of systems, applications, and devices into the network and offers a user-friendly interface with guidance for network and user management.

Key features include a dedicated VPN gateway with the option of selecting from multiple global locations, static IP for IP whitelisting to restrict access, a secure web gateway to shield users from threats, split tunneling capabilities, and native apps for various devices. Encryption is prioritized with IKEv2/IPSec and OpenVPN protocols, ensuring communication remains confidential. The VPN service is also equipped with two-factor authentication for enhanced security. The user-friendly control panel aids in network and user management, offering a clear view of traffic.

Cisco AnyConnect

Cisco is a market leader in enabling and securing remote ways of working. Their products range from digital conferencing tools to internet access security, always ensuring that organizations’ communications are protected. AnyConnect is Cisco’s policy-driven VPN tool, designed to secure remote workers’ network access across wired, wireless and VPN connections. The solution provides secure access to the network from any device, at any time, from any location and offers complete visibility as to who is accessing an organization’s network through a single management agent.

AnyConnect uses the IKEv2 and SSL protocols to support a highly secure internet connection. All users are authenticated using multi-factor authentication (MFA) before connecting, to ensure only those with permission are granted access. The use of MFA means that hackers can’t tap into the connection, even if they know the user’s password. All data traffic is encrypted so that if the connection is intercepted, the data traffic will be unreadable. With AnyConnect Secure Mobility Client, organizations can also protect Android and iOS devices, which provides complete protection until the device is turned off. Admins are granted complete visibility across the extended enterprise, including mobile devices, as to who is accessing the network and from which device. If support is required, Cisco offers a 24/7 tech support for application managers.

AnyConnect delivers software updates automatically to make sure that users always receive the most efficient and effective protection possible. It integrates well with other Cisco solutions, so organizations can use it as a stand-alone product or as a part of a wider security stack. For this reason, we recommend Cisco AnyConnect as a strong, scalable VPN solution for all large enterprises, but particularly those with an interest in investing in other Cisco products.

Citrix Gateway (formerly NetScaler)

Citrix provides cybersecurity services focused around enabling remote employees to work as productively as were they in the office. Serving over 100m users across the globe, including 98% of the Fortune 500, their solutions include virtual desktops, endpoint management and behavior and performance analytics. Citrix Gateway, formerly NetScaler, is Citrix’s VPN service that secures web, cloud and mobile applications, across all devices.

Citrix Gateway provides organizations with a single access point through which they can access the internet, apps and other business resources, no matter where their users are located. All connections from remote devices are made through Citrix, which means that organizations don’t have to worry about what devices employees are using to gain access – Citrix only allows safe, authenticated devices to connect. Citrix Gateway provides two-factor authentication, where users are required to sign in using a password ad secure token, so that hackers can’t gain access to the network even if they crack a user’s password. This secure authentication process allows Gateway to provide consistent single sign-on access for all applications. As users are verified before they can connect to the gateway, they don’t need to re-enter credentials once connected to the VPN. The solution also offers role-based access, so that individuals can only access the network levels that they require to be able to do their work.

Citrix Gateway allows users to connect with their work desktops from anywhere, including on mobile devices. Customers have praised the solution for its fast connections, which make it suitable for organizations working with active client relationships. This also makes it a great solution for enterprises with employees around the world connecting across different time zones, when it might not be possible to get into the office.

Fortinet FortiClient

Fortinet is a market leader in securing remote enterprise networks. Their intelligent solutions provide security to more than 450,000 customers worldwide. Fortinet’s FortiClient is their integrated endpoint protection platform. It offers automated threat protection and vulnerability management, as well as complete visibility through a central management console.

FortiClient uses SSL and IPSec VPN to provide users with secure access to their organization’s network from any remote location. This lightweight solution is easy to integrate and deploy, and offers real-time central management through the Enterprise Management Server (EMS). This allows admins to configure VPN settings, monitor the attack surface, manage vulnerabilities, enforce compliance and track changes from one location. Admins can also use the platform to set up remote deployment for new starters.

Users connect to the VPN through a secure two-factor authentication process. Once verified, the client minimizes so as to cause as little disruption to the user as possible whilst still providing a secure connection. As well as the VPN security, FortiClient protects Microsoft Office applications and PDF readers against exploits. It also detects operating system and third-party application vulnerabilities in real time. Admins can configure and manage their vulnerability patches through the central management console.

FortiClient integrates seamlessly with Fortinet’s other security solutions, particularly FortiSandbox and FortiGuard, which both use behavior-based analysis and crowdsourced intelligence to detect and remediate known and unknown malware threats. Though it also works well as a stand-alone product, this makes FortiClient a particularly good solution for enterprises looking to invest in a VPN as part of a wider security stack.

Google Cloud VPN

Google produces a number of cloud security products under their Google Cloud brand to help keep organizations’ critical assets secure and their processes compliant. Their solutions are designed to cover all aspects of security, from the overall network architecture down to the granular protection of users and endpoints. Cloud VPN is Google’s VPN service, offering a fast, secure connection between remote users and their organization’s wider network.

Google offers two types of Cloud VPN: HA (high availability) VPN and Classic VPN. Both of these connect a user to their network through an IPsec connection. Google’s Cloud VPNs encrypt traffic at one end, then decrypt it when it reaches its destination. This means that all information sent is kept secure and private, so that not even the service provider can read the user’s data. The HA VPN offers a service-level agreement (SLA) of 99.99% service availability; the Classic VPN offers an SLA of 99.9%. Customers praise the Cloud VPNs user-friendly interface, though it’s important to note that the HA VPN runs across two separate interfaces. Both VPNs use external IP addresses to protect the user’s identity and location when browsing. The HA VPN chooses IP addresses from a pool, but an admin must create external IPs if running the Classic VPN.

Google regularly performs automatic maintenance on their Cloud VPN services, ensuring that users always receive the highest possible level of protection. Both solutions are easy to set up, and Google provides in-depth support so that even those with little technical expertise can configure networking policies with ease. This is a strong solution for organizations looking for a secure VPN that’s simple to configure and easy to manage post-deployment.

NordLayer

NordLayer is a cybersecurity solution for business from market-leading online privacy and security provider, Nord Security. Over 15 million users currently trust NordSecurity to keep their data safe on the internet. NordLayer, designed to provide access control in line with zero trust principles, helps businesses to secure remote access to their corporate network. As well as offering remote access security, NordLayer offers each of its customers the services of a dedicated account manager to help them get the most out of their solution.

NordLayer secures remote devices in just one click, securing all data traffic with AES 256-bit encryption as soon as the user clicks on a gateway. Users can also enable the auto-connect feature for a constant and immediate network connection. The app’s Kill Switch feature, when enabled, automatically cuts off all internet traffic from the device if the connection to the server breaks at all, ensuring that no bad actors can access user data. Admins can manage user accounts, permissions and gateways from a single centralized dashboard, with optional help from a designated account manager. Users connect to the VPN with their existing business credentials, but NordLayer also supports third-party multi-factor and biometric authentication with Azure AD, Google Workspace, Okta and OneLogin, as well as single sign-on to ensure maximum security without creating friction within the user’s login experience.

As well as their VPN security, NordLayer’s solution offers support via live chat and email, and the support team promise to respond to all enquiries within three hours. Because NordLayer is a cloud-based solution, it’s easily scalable and can provide protection within a few hours of purchase. The solution is available via three plans—Basic, Advanced and Enterprise—making it a strong solution for organizations of any size looking for user-friendly security and a quick set-up.

Palo Alto Networks GlobalProtect

Palo Alto Networks is a global leader in cybersecurity offerings at enterprise level. They specialize in their use of AI, analytics and automation and orchestration across their solutions. GlobalProtect is Palo Alto Networks’ VPN solution, which delivers the capabilities of their Security Operating Platform to remote workers and mobile devices. It provides excellent protection for network connections, as well as in-depth visibility into who is accessing an organization’s network.

GlobalProtect establishes a secure SSL or IPsec VPN connection between users and the network and the solution’s next-generation firewall. The connection itself supports heavy traffic by distributing requests across multiple network portals and gateways. It offers authoritative user and device identification and multi-factor authentication. GlobalProtect’s advanced firewall capabilities allow admins insight as to who is using the solution to connect to their network and applications, as well as what devices they’re gaining access on. They can also create security policies that restrict or allow access based on business need. These policies extend to all users, regardless of their location, in order to allow all users secure access and remove any remote access blindspots. GlobalProtect integrates seamlessly with Palo Alto’s Next-Generation Firewall, which means that it is also able to secure devices against a number of targeted cyberattacks, evasive application traffic and malicious websites.

Because GlobalProtect is available as an app, organizations can also use it to secure mobile devices such as Android and iOS systems. This makes it particularly useful for working across different timezones and organizations whose employees require flexible hours and regularly access the network out of hours, for example to maintain contact with clients and partners. Customers praise this solution for its ease of deployment and configuration, even amongst non-technical users. Palo Alto Networks’ GlobalProtect is a strong solution for organizations looking for extensive security across remote devices, and particularly mobile devices, that they can set up quickly.

Perimeter 81

Perimeter 81 is a leading network security vendor that specializes in scalable, cloud-based solutions for the modern hybrid workforce. The Perimeter 81 platform combines an award-winning Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) solution, a Secure Service Edge (SSE) platform, a Firewall as a Service (FWaaS), and a Secure Web Gateway (SWG), to enable organizations to protect their cloud environments, whether on-premises or remote.

Perimeter 81’s simplistic platform encrypts all traffic to protect sensitive corporate data from unauthorized access that can lead to a breach. It supports IPSec, OpenVPN and WireGuard protocols, to ensure that all cloud environments are protected effectively. The platform uses a Zero Trust approach to restrict network access, including access to web applications and cloud environments. Admins can configure access permissions based on role and device, so they have total visibility of who is accessing the network from a unified management portal. Admins can also access activity audits and reports to monitor login, gateway deployments, and app connections. Perimeter 81’s zero-trust solution also features two-factor authentication (2FA) for an added layer of protection against identity-based attacks, as well as DNS filtering capabilities, which allow admins to block users from accessing specific sites through a web browser.

Perimeter 81’s holistic and user-centric platform is cloud-based, which means that organizations can scale their entire infrastructure without the use of any external hardware. Perimeter 81 is fully compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS and Android, as well as Linux and Chromebook, to ensure that network access is always secure and simple, no matter which device is being used. We recommend Perimeter 81 as a strong, modern VPN alternative for organizations looking to secure remote access to their corporate network, without the hardware or complexity of deploying a traditional VPN.

Zscaler Private Access

ZScaler is a market-leading vendor in cloud-based web security that scales to grow with the client’s organization. ZScaler Private Access (ZPA) is their zero-trust cloud-based solution that provides a seamless, secure connection between remote devices and private applications running on the public cloud or within a data center. It ensures that applications are never exposed to the internet, so that they’re completely inaccessible to unauthorized users. ZPA supports both managed and unmanaged devices, and secures the connection to any private application, not just web apps.

ZScaler Private Access is built on a zero-trust network access (ZTNA) foundation, which means that apps are connected to outbound to authorized users, rather than the network being extended as with some traditional VPNs. This means that IP addresses are always hidden and DDoS is impossible. Once authorized, users can access specific private apps without having to access the overall network, which reduces the risk of the lateral spread of ransomware. From the ZPA management portal admins have granular control over creating and defining policy names, selecting the applications that each policy is associated with, and configuring permissions for users and user groups down to individual application and user level. Additionally, ZPA uses the same ZScaler Client Connector app as their internet access solution, ZIA, to ensure that browser access is available for web apps.

ZPA’s solution takes a user- and application-centric approach to access security. The segmented connections between applications and user devices makes this solution particularly good at reducing lateral movement. Because it’s cloud-based, ZPA is quick to deploy and extremely scalable, so organizations don’t have to worry about using external hardware to upgrade their protection as they grow. We recommend ZScaler Private Access as a strong secure access solution for enterprises looking for seamless remote access for their employees that scales easily and helps to reduce the threat of ransomware attacks.

FAQs

How Do VPNs Work?

You can think of a VPN as an encrypted tunnel. It makes a connection between your device and a host VPN server. You will then access data from the host VPN server, rather than from your own device directly. This effectively masks your device IP and location, allowing you to access content with immunity.

This tunnel is completely secure, meaning that no one can monitor the traffic that passes through the tunnel. Hackers will not be able to imbed malicious code on the traffic that is sent to your device whilst in transit.

What Are The Benefits Of Using A VPN?

• Allows you to access content without being identified. This is particularly useful for secure sectors, or journalists who may be at risk if their identity, or sources, were revealed.
• Disguises your location. As VPNs mask where your real location is, you can gain access to content that is geographically restricted.
• Prevents malicious actors from imbedding malware into your internet traffic – this is particularly useful if you need to log into public Wi-Fi networks

What Should You Be Aware Of When Using A VPN?

• Your connection might be slightly slower than if you weren’t using a VPN
• You should check that your VPN has a no-logs policy, otherwise it could catalogue your “anonymous” activities
• Some countries have banned VPNs
• Free VPNs can be insecure, or overwhelm you with adverts

Deputy Head Of Content

Caitlin Jones is Deputy Head of Content at Expert Insights. Before joining Expert Insights, Caitlin spent three years producing award-winning technical training materials and journalistic content. Caitlin holds a First Class BA in English Literature and German, and currently provides our content team with strategic editorial guidance as well as carrying out detailed research to create articles that are accurate, engaging and relevant.

Best VPN for businesses in 2023 and some to avoid

With more people than ever working remotely, business VPNs have never been more popular. We take a look at the best VPNs for small business.

Paul Bischoff TECH WRITER, PRIVACY ADVOCATE AND VPN EXPERT
@pabischoff UPDATED: July 6, 2023

A business VPN creates a secure and encrypted tunnel between the user’s device and the company’s network. This ensures that data transmitted between them is protected from interception and unauthorized access.

This enables remote users or branch offices to access the company’s internal network resources securely.

There are a number of dedicated business VPNs on the market (many offer an array of network security solutions) as well as consumer VPNs with business plans.

We get into plenty of detail on each of the providers below, but in case you only have time for a quick glance, below is a summary of the best VPNs for business.

Best Business VPNs:

1. Perimeter 81 Our #1 choice VPN for business. Servers are capable of fast and stable connections that can handle all kinds of network traffic including SSH, RDP, VNC, and Telnet. You can even set up site-to-site VPNs.
2. NordLayer Specialist business VPN popular with small and medium sized organizations.
3. Twingate Business VPN which caters to remote teams with SSO support, split tunneling, zero-trust access, and private gateways.
4. Windscribe Budget business VPN option with top security features, easy to use apps and centralized billing option. Good documentation but lacks 24/7 support.
5. CyberGhost Great value service with secure apps that are easy to install and get started. Some of the fastest servers we have tested.
6. IPVanish Fast servers with secure and reliable connections. User friendly apps. Would prefer 24hr support.
7. ExpressVPN Extensive network of fast servers. High-grade encryption and even works great in China and the UAE. Not the cheapest option on this list.

Best business VPNs – at a glance

We’ve compared the most important features for the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with Perimeter81 – our #1 choice VPN for businesses.

Best business VPNs

While there are many providers to choose from, not every VPN service is comparable. Our top picks for the best VPNs for business are ranked on the following factors:

• Offers services that cater specifically to businesses
• Speed and stability
• Strong security
• Number of simultaneous connections
• Apps for Android, iOS, Windows, and MacOS

1. Perimeter 81

Apps Available:

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

Perimeter 81 is a specialist business VPN. It allows businesses to deploy private VPN servers that staff can securely connect to from anywhere in the world. You can easily manage network activity for your entire staff without an IT degree from an online dashboard. This will allow employees to securely access files, apps, and other resources securely from remote locations.

Key Features:

• Designed for distributed businesses
• Includes application fencing
• Can implement SASE
• Protection for premises and cloud accounts
• Controls access rights

Perimeter 81 caters to businesses with unique security features like network segmentation to isolate sensitive data from breaches. If your business has offices in different locations, you can set up site to site VPNs to connect the two networks. Cloud VPNs allow remote access and can easily be scaled up as needed.

All data is encrypted with 256-bit AES. If you don’t deploy your own VPN, you can choose from 700 public servers in 36 locations around the world. Businesses can monitor access to the VPN by logging and inspecting all traffic that passes through it.

Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and Chrome.

Pros:

• Caters specifically to businesses
• Deploy your own server or choose from public ones
• Supports site-to-site VPNs
• Host apps and files on the VPN server
• Strong encryption
• Supports network segmentation

Cons:

• Not the cheapest option in this list

Best VPN for Business: Perimeter 81 is our #1 choice . The ‘Advanced Cloud VPN’ is a dedicated feature custom-built for business use. A large network of fast servers that are extremely customizable. Suitable for most business purposes and allows 5 simultaneous connections. Includes a 30-day money back guarantee so you can try it risk-free.

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2. NordLayer

Apps Available:

Money-back guarantee: 14 DAYS

NordLayer is NordVPN’s business-focused service for small to medium sized businesses. You can easily set up secure remote access to both the office network and to the internet. Every user account can be managed from a single, centralized control panel. You can tunnel connections from work devices through 33 different countries. Adding users is easy and won’t complicate billing.

Key Features:

• AES-256 encryption
• Dedicated IP option
• Remote access and site-to-site
• Device security scanning

Third-party authentication works with GSuite, OneLogin, Okta, And Azure. Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Strong encryption and a kill switch ensure your organization’s data is protected at all times. NordLayer promises to assist businesses that need support in less than three hours.

Pros:

• Fast and reliable connections
• Military-grade 256-bit encryption for great privacy
• Strict no-logs policy ideal for privacy-conscious users
• Unlimited bandwidth and no data caps
• Apps for Windows, MacOS, iOS, Linux and Android

Cons:

• Desktop app can take some getting used to

GREAT LOW COST VPN: NordLayer offers great value . A real contender in all categories, has strong security features, fast speeds, and simple billing for businesses.

Here’s our full review of NordVPN (note this review is of the consumer version).

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3. Twingate

Twingate is a new VPN business with some interesting features that set it apart from others in this list. Twingate is a cloud-based service that differentiates itself from traditional VPN solutions thanks to zero-trust access control and making gateways invisible to the internet. Twingate can be deployed without changing network infrastructure and is easily scaled.

Key Features:

• Access control to applications
• Single sign-on
• Role-based access groups

Twingate supports single sign on (SSO) so that staff can only access the resources that IT admins give them. That includes on-cloud and on-premises apps and remote networks. Split tunneling allows traffic to pass through the network only if necessary, while more bandwidth-intensive activities like video calls go through a direct connection.

Pros:

• Zero-trust access control
• Supports most major single sign-on (SSO) providers
• Easily deployed
• Split tunneling

Cons:

• Not a VPN, strictly speaking

EASY DEPLOYMENT: Twingate is a trustless solution for remote teams that use SSO. A 14-day free trial is on offer at time of writing.

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4. Windscribe

Apps Available:

VPN Ratings:

Money-back guarantee: 3 DAYS

Windscribe has an offering tailored specifically for teams and businesses, named ScribeForce. This is a low-cost service, ideal for business-owners on a budget. The plan gives you all features of a Windscribe Pro plan which includes access to over 600 servers in more than 50 countries. You also get centralized billing and a panel from you can configure and manage your entire team.

Windscribe offers fast speeds and top-notch security. It uses 256-bit encryption with perfect forward secrecy, a kill switch, and DNS, IPv6, and WebRTC leak protection. A new feature blocks ads and malware on all devices. The service doesn’t log any information that can identify you.

Apps are available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android. Currently, an unlimited number of devices can be connected under each plan.

Pros:

• App has a native firewall that blocks all non-VPN traffic to avoid data leaks
• Low-cost budget option for businesses
• Blocks ads and malware on all device
• Fast server speeds and reliable connections

Cons:

• No true live chat will frustrate some users
• Less servers than others on our list

BEST BUDGET BUSINESS VPN: Windscribe hits good speeds . Solid for business use. Stores no logs and uses tunneling techniques for good security and privacy. Lacks true 24/7 support. 3-day money-back guarantee.

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5. CyberGhost

Apps Available:

VPN Ratings:

Money-back guarantee: 45 DAYS

There’s no dedicated business VPN option available at Romania-headquartered CyberGhost. But it makes the best business VPN for list due to its affordability and number of simultaneous connections in paid accounts.

Key Features:

• AES-256 encryption
• Dedicated IP option
• Optional antivirus suite

This provider has been adding new servers at a frenetic pace. Currently, there are more than 9,000 servers spread across 91 countries but we expect this to keep going up in the medium term. The additional benefit for businesses is that it has an internal policy of not storing any data logs so the content of communications should remain hidden, even from system administrators at the company. There are apps for both Android and iOS as well as desktop support for Windows, MacOS, and Linux. A single account allows for seven simultaneous connections.

This VPN service uses 256-bit AES encryption on the OpenVPN protocol by default along with 2,048-bit RSA keys and MD5 HMAC authentication. There’s also an internet kill switch which means web traffic will be halted if the connection drops unexpectedly.

Seven devices can connect at the same time with one account.

Pros:

• Some of the fastest servers we’ve tested
• Kill switch on all apps and keeps no logs
• Apps are easy to install and use

Cons:

• No business-specific service
• Not suitable for those that need control of advanced features

BEGINNERS’ CHOICE: CyberGhost is easy to use . Great privacy with zero logs and DNS leak protection. Unblocks popular streaming platforms and restricted services. 45-day money back guarantee.

Here’s our full review of CyberGhost.

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6. IPVanish

Apps Available:

VPN Ratings:

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

IPVanish continues in the vein of having a zero-logs policy. It combines that with rigid encryption protocols and a focus on quick speeds to deliver a robust product overall.

Key Features:

• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• Very high speeds
• WiFi protection

At the moment there are more than 2,000 servers spread across the world with a decent selection in each continent. Encryption standards are similarly impressive. IPVanish uses 256-bit encryption on the OpenVPN protocol by default, SHA512 authentication, and a DHE-RSA 2,048-bit key exchange with perfect forward secrecy. An internet kill switch is available in all clients.

There are apps for both iOS and Android as well as desktop programs for Windows and MacOS. There is no limit to the number of devices you can connect to the service simultaneously with one account.

Pros:

• Impressive speeds and reliable connections
• A fairly thorough knowledge base is searchable on the company website
• DNS and IPv6 leak protection, traffic obfuscation, and a kill switch are all built in

Cons:

• No business-specific service
• Look elsewhere if you need to use apps in China
• Doesn’t offer any browser extensions

FAST AND RELIABLE: IPVanish has a large network of servers . Uncongested network achieves good speeds. Strong security and privacy features. Could do with having live customer support. 30-day money back guarantee.

Read our full review of IPVanish.

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7. ExpressVPN

Apps Available:

VPN Ratings:

Money-back guarantee: 30 DAYS

ExpressVPN has thousands of servers spread across 94 countries, which means it’s a pretty good choice for employees that might have to travel frequently or work remotely. The largest selection is in Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific with a smaller number in Africa and the Middle East.

Key Features:

• Strong encryption
• Password manager
• Private DNS

The VPN service is a firm favorite with users as it offers fast speeds coupled with military-grade encryption. Privacy-conscious users will be happy that ExpressVPN does not store any traffic logs. The only tiny bit of metadata retention pertains to the date (not time) of connection, choice of server location, and total bandwidth used.

It helps that ExpressVPN’s headquarters are in the British Virgin Islands and it therefore doesn’t have to comply with any mandatory data retention laws. This means it’s also out of the jurisdiction of western government agencies.

Encryption standards are stringent. The provider utilizes 256-bit AES-CBC as its default encryption protocol as well as both HMAC authentication and perfect forward secrecy. There’s an internet kill switch included, which the company refers to as a ‘network lock’.

It’s not very generous when it comes to simultaneous connections, however, with a maximum of five devices allowed on a single plan.

Apps are available for both iOS and Android as well as desktop software for Windows, MacOS, and Linux.

Pros:

• High speeds for downloading and video streaming
• Solid privacy and security
• Great capabilities for unblocking geo-locked content

Cons:

• No business-specific service
• Slightly more expensive than some other options
• Power-users may find the advanced options limited

GREAT ALL-ROUNDER: ExpressVPN holds its own . A fast and reliable choice which confidently unblocks most restricted sites. Great privacy features and keeps no logs. One of the few VPNs to work in China and the UAE. 30-day money-back guarantee.

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Finding the best business VPNs: Our methodology

There may be a lot of VPNs on the market but many simply aren’t suitable for small and medium-sized businesses. Our methodology for finding the best VPNs for a business involved looking for those that provide the following:

• Business-oriented: Most VPNs on the market cater to individuals rather than businesses. We searched for those that offer services specifically for businesses. For example, we understand that you may need to host resources that staff can securely access remotely.
• Speed: Time is money and this makes a VPN’s speed all the more important. By testing each business VPN for ourselves, we’re able to determine its level of performance. We look for the fastest VPNs, all of which should include unlimited bandwidth. This allows for faster file transfers and connections to remote company servers.
• Unblocking: Unfortunately, there are a lot of geographic restrictions on the web. This includes popular news websites and online banking services. If you want your team to be able to access all of the same information, you need a VPN with strong unblocking ability for bypassing these restrictions.
• Security: Hacks, viruses, and data breaches are just some of the security threats your business faces on a daily basis. We look for each VPN we recommend to offer high-end encryption and leak protection at a minimum. However, many of the best VPNs for businesses offer far more than this.
• Privacy: The VPN you use should operate a no-logs policy. This means that it doesn’t keep any identifying logs of users, protecting the privacy not only of your business but the entire staff using it. Not every VPN can be trusted, however. That’s why we’ve looked at over 140 VPN logging policies to find the best.
• Ease of use: From setting up the VPN for the first time to adding or removing users, the experience should be straightforward. The best VPNs for businesses provide beginner-friendly apps and 24-hour support via live chat and email. Furthermore, there’s no shortage of setup and troubleshooting guides should you need them.
• Value for money: The good news is that the best VPNs for businesses provide a variety of options to suit all budgets. Your business can save even more when you use one of the VPN discount coupons we’ve provided in this post. Better still, you can try the VPN risk-free because each one includes a money-back guarantee.

Business VPN FAQ

Why do I need a business VPN?

Businesses can use a VPN for two main things: secure access to the internet and connecting to a company server where employees can securely access files, apps, and other company resources.

A VPN creates an encrypted connection over the internet between two devices, typically a smartphone or laptop and a server. The encryption prevents third parties such as hackers, governments, and internet service providers from snooping on data as it passes between these two devices. This is particularly useful for remote employees who need secure internet access from unprotected networks at hotels, airports, and cafes.

A VPN can also allow staff to safely access files, documents, apps, printers, and other resources on the VPN server as if they were on a local network. For instance, an employee could connect to an app on the VPN server to write and edit documents without ever downloading those documents to their own device.

How do I set up a VPN for my business?

Setting up a VPN is pretty easy. Employees will need to download the VPN provider’s app on their laptop and/or smartphone. They can then use the app to connect to the VPN server, which will encrypt all of the data before it leaves the device.

If you’re running your own VPN server, you can store files or host apps on it that employees can only access while connected. You’ll need some way to manage user credentials—either passwords or some other sort of key. Thankfully, the business-oriented VPNs we recommend above will take care of most of this for you.

Should I use a free business VPN?

A free VPN service sounds like an attractive option for businesses looking to cut back on expenses and avoid unnecessary overheads. But we must warn you that this process entails a significant degree of risk.

Free VPNs won’t have large server networks spread across the world, stringent encryption standards, or speedy connections that are a staple with paid options. The weak encryption means your business might be susceptible to a hacking attempt and a real threat of data loss. Slow speeds will result in longer wait times for file transfers or connections to remote company servers.

In some cases, free VPN services have also forcefully inserted tracking cookies, mined user data, and sold it to advertisers for a profit. We’re pretty sure you wouldn’t want that to happen to your employees which is why we think it’s in your best interest to skip them.

How do VPNs protect remote employees?

The internet has helped break down barriers to communication, bring people closer together, and democratize access to information. Businesses are no longer restricted to the talent available in their city/town – they can scour the globe for employees and use remote workers to scale.

Such trends are now catching on. Currently, it is estimated that about 2.8 percent of the global workforce now works from home. The figure represents an increase of 105% from 2005. And after the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for remote work looks very likely to increase.

For businesses that hire remote workers, it’s crucial that their data is protected and encrypted. This keeps it away from any malicious entity that might be trying to snoop in. A VPN will help mitigate these risks to a considerable degree.

At the same time, employees are traveling for off-site meetings, sales visits, and other business needs. They might be connecting to public wifi in coffee shops, malls, hotels, or cafes. Such networks aren’t considered to be incredibly secure. Hundreds of people are connected at any given time, representing a security hazard.

Another factor to consider is the rising threat of cybercrime – specifically corporate espionage. The most common ways of achieving this are email and credit card theft with hackers keen to target the weakest links in the chain. These are mainly employees that use their personal phones for business tasks as well as other unsecured devices connected to the network.

In 2014, more than 16 million mobile devices worldwide were infected by malware according to Alcatel-Lucent’s Motive Security Labs. Companies lost over US$400 billion to cybercrime the same year. A routine method is for hackers to try and target smartphones as a way of entering the system. From there they can breach firewalls and carry out denial-of-service attacks to steal data.

It’s not just large companies coming under attack and small businesses are feeling the impact too. A Malwarebytes ransomware report revealed findings that 22% of small businesses hit by ransomware attacks actually had to immediately cease operations.

In such a scenario it makes perfect sense to cough up a few dollars each month to secure your business. As long as your employees have VPN apps installed on their laptops and phones you can sleep easier at night.

What should I look for in a business VPN?

First off, we recommend you use a VPN that is intended specifically for business use. This will ensure it has the necessary functionality and security, and meets regulatory compliance standards.

Businesses should consider a few factors when weighing different VPN options:

• Cloud or self-hosted? Most of the VPNs we recommend above operate in the cloud. This makes them much easier to set up, manage, and scale. You can host files and apps on the cloud VPN server, which employees can remotely access using VPN apps. Alternatively, you can host your own VPN server either in the cloud or on-site, but know that doing so will require more IT resources and expertise.
• A good dashboard. It might seem superficial, but a well-designed dashboard for managing VPN accounts and access privileges across your business will go a long way in keeping employees connected and secured.
• Site-to-site: Employees aren’t the only ones who can use a VPN. You can create a secure tunnel between two networks with a VPN as well. This is called a site-to-site VPN, and it’s useful for businesses with multiple offices, for instance.
• Scalability: If you plan on going on a hiring spree, make sure your VPN can keep up. Adding and removing access and accounts to the VPN server should be easy. Keep an eye on the price as well.
• Security: This goes without saying, but be sure to choose a secure VPN. That means strong encryption, leak prevention, authentication, and a no-logs policy from the VPN provider. Keep an eye out for features like two-factor authentication, perfect forward secrecy, and modern, open-source VPN protocols.
• Segmentation: By dividing your network into smaller parts, you can better protect critical data while still allowing access to other files and apps.
• Support: If you’re choosing one of the VPNs we recommended, you probably aren’t certified as a network administrator. That means you might encounter issues for which you’ll need help. Be sure to choose a VPN with knowledgeable and prompt—preferably live—customer support. Some support is limited to the business hours of the country in which the VPN is based, so be sure to check when support is available.

Business VPN alternatives

For enterprise environments, VPNs might not be the most suitable solution. For site-to-site connections between geographically distant offices and data centers in particular, there exist several more modern alternatives:

• MPLS, or multi-protocol label switching, routes data using labels instead of public IP addresses. It makes traffic prioritization possible, is less vulnerable to insecure IP lookups, and generally suffers less latency than a site-to-site VPN.
• ZTNA. Zero Trust Network Access solutions work on the application layer and, unlike VPNs, are independent of the network. Instead, users are connected directly to applications based on user verification and device posture. Applications are hidden from the internet, which reduces attack surface. This is the scheme used by Twingate.
• Cloud VPN. Set up using SD-WAN (software-defined wide are networkig), cloud VPNs can be faster, more secure, and require less maintenance than traditional VPNs. SD-WAN cloud VPNs are best implemented with SASE, or secure access service edge, which gives the organization a single, centralized view of the entire network.
• Leased circuits, also known as leased lines, are permanent and private connections between two or more locations. Leased circuits are expensive and only applicable to very large enterprises.

Some VPNs to avoid

When you opt for a business VPN, you’d like to think that the provider will do all it can to safeguard data and protect your company from external threats. VPN providers have a moral responsibility to fulfill their side of the bargain. But not all companies hold this principle dear — we feel you should refrain from using them.

1. HolaVPN

Israel-based Hola, which operated a free peer-to-peer VPN extension for Chrome, once had a user base of almost 50 million. Unfortunately, it deployed the machines it was installed on as pawns in a massive botnet army.

A part of Hola users’ individual bandwidth was used to engage in things like Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, promoting pirated content, and distributing pornography. And that’s without any user consent whatsoever.

2. Betternet

Betternet exemplifies why you should keep away from free VPNs. It was found to contain malware, violate its own privacy policy, and redirect users to web pages where it stood to make a profit. It logged users information to serve them advertisements from third-parties.

On top of all that, speeds are slow and servers are unreliable. Betternet has very little to offer consumers, and even less for businesses.

3. PureVPN

Media reports have stated that well-known paid VPN provider PureVPN collaborated with the FBI to identify Massachusetts resident Ryan Lin, believed to be stalking an unnamed 24-year-old woman.

Ryan had allegedly used PureVPN to cover his tracks while attempting to blackmail the woman. The FBI roped in PureVPN after a complaint was lodged.

For its part, PureVPN insists that it didn’t record the content of Ryan’s communications while connected to its servers, but the company did boast of a ‘no-logs’ policy prior to this episode.