Information technology costs pose an ongoing challenge for companies, whether they rely on a handful of devices or possess thousands, as connecting these devices through a network remains an essential necessity.
Networks assist companies in exchanging files, coordinating communication among employees, and accelerating daily task completion, but as the number of connected devices grows and the scope of software usage expands, this process can become a source of complexity and additional expense.
VPN networks emerge as an economical solution that eases financial burdens on companies, offering multiple advantages including flexibility, security, and cost reduction.
In this article, we explore how VPN networks contribute to lowering your company’s costs, while also reviewing their various types.
How Does a VPN Save Your Company Money?
Information technology costs in companies continue to rise steadily, whether you own 10 computers or 10,000 devices, making their connection via a network an indispensable requirement.
Companies need networks to share files, facilitate communication between employees, and streamline task execution, but as the number of connected devices increases and software distribution widens, matters may become more complicated. VPN networks provide an economical solution for companies through several key aspects, including:
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High Flexibility: There are no strict rules for setting up a VPN network, allowing you to design it precisely according to your company’s needs.
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Ease of Use: A VPN network is considered simple and user-friendly for both users and technicians alike, without hidden complexities.
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Guaranteed Security: Connecting to the office from outside using traditional methods may expose you to risks, and when issues arise, repair costs can be exorbitant, whereas a VPN network can prevent those costly security breaches.
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Reduced Licensing Costs: Software companies demand more money as the number of users increases, but VPN networks enable more people to use a single license, significantly reducing costs.
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Scalability: As your company grows, the IT bill and associated challenges may rise, yet a VPN network can be easily expanded, supporting your business growth without struggle.
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Multi-Site Connectivity: A VPN network enables easy connection between two offices or multiple branches using the internet, saving the costs of leased lines between buildings.
How Does a VPN Save Your Company Time?
VPN networks improve your company’s efficiency and save time by directly impacting employee performance and simplifying their tasks. Here are the key ways a VPN network contributes to saving time for your company:
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Ease of Learning: Training employees on new systems may take long hours, whereas a VPN network is considered easy to understand and use, reducing the time required for training and allowing that time to be utilized for more critical tasks.
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Rapid Expansion: The process of establishing new networks or expanding traditional connections requires considerable time, whereas a VPN network allows you to expand the network quickly and securely over the internet without needing new infrastructure.
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Access to Files from Anywhere: The cloud faces challenges in security and ease of use, whereas a VPN network enables access to office files or the internal network from anywhere in the world, sparing employees the hassle of seeking alternative solutions while traveling or working from home.
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Bypassing Geographical Restrictions: Some websites determine their content based on your geographical location, which may hinder the work of traveling salespeople, whereas a VPN network enables their devices to simulate presence in any country regardless of their actual location, saving time and boosting efficiency.
Types of VPN Networks
VPN network types vary to meet diverse needs for both companies and individuals, with each type offering tailored features aligned with different usage scenarios. Here’s an overview of the primary types of VPN networks:
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Site-to-Site VPN
This network is used to securely connect independent networks, such as a main office and its branches, over the internet. Many companies adopt this model to transfer sensitive data via the internet instead of costly private MPLS channels.
It allows companies with multiple branches in distant regions to unify their central network with remote offices, facilitating communication and resource sharing as if they were a single integrated network. It can also be utilized as an extranet system to link the company’s network with partners or suppliers.
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Remote Access VPN
Remote Access VPNs are designed to allow distant users to securely connect to the company’s main data center and benefit from its applications and information. All sent and received data is encrypted, ensuring security even when using public networks.
It establishes a virtual private channel between the company’s network and the remote user, making data impervious to breaches and enabling employees to work as if they were inside the office.
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Cloud VPN
Sometimes referred to as VPN as a Service (VPNaaS), this type is specifically tailored for cloud environments. It enables users to securely access the company’s resources, data, and applications stored in the cloud through a web interface or a dedicated app on desktop or mobile devices.
Cloud VPN networks integrate seamlessly with the company’s cloud distribution framework without requiring local infrastructure, distinguished by rapid global configuration, making them flexible and efficient compared to traditional networks.
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SSL VPN
This network allows remote users to connect to private networks securely using the SSL protocol or its successor, TLS, to encrypt data between the user’s device and the VPN gateway. It doesn’t require dedicated VPN software, relying instead on standard web browsers, which simplifies deployment and reduces complexity.
It secures all communications between the browser and the VPN gateway, ensuring safe data transfer across untrusted networks. It is divided into two types:
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SSL Portal VPN: Users connect to a single webpage containing links to private network resources, establishing a secure connection after entering credentials to access pre-designated applications.
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SSL Tunnel VPN: Provides broader access to diverse network services, including non-web-based ones, through an encrypted tunnel, and may require additional browser applications like JavaScript to operate efficiently.
FAQs
Does a VPN Affect Internet Speed?
Yes, a VPN network may impact internet connection speed. When your data is routed through a VPN server, additional steps are introduced that might cause slight delays or reduce speed, but selecting a reliable service provider significantly minimizes this effect.
How Does a VPN Work?
A VPN network creates an encrypted and secure channel by passing your internet traffic through a server you select in a specific location, concealing your IP address and enhancing your online privacy and security.
What Are the Uses of a VPN?
VPN networks are used to enhance privacy by hiding your IP address, protect connections on public Wi-Fi networks by encrypting data, bypass geographical boundaries to access content, and unlock services and websites tied to specific regions.
What Benefits Does a VPN Offer Companies?
VPN networks provide secure access for employees working remotely outside the office, safeguard sensitive data during travel, and ensure secure connections between different office locations, improving team collaboration.
How Does a VPN Protect Against Hacking?
A VPN network encrypts your data, making it difficult for hackers to access it over public Wi-Fi or compromised networks, though it doesn’t offer full protection against all types of cyberattacks.
What Are the Advantages of Using a VPN at Home?
Using a VPN at home helps protect your privacy while browsing or streaming, secures your connection against potential risks on your home network, and allows access to geo-restricted content from other regions.