What is a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?

With the rise of remote work in recent years, companies are looking for new ways to connect with their employees who are scattered across the globe. One of the most popular solutions to this problem is the Virtual Private Network (VPN).

A VPN is a secure and private network that allows employees to connect to their company's network from anywhere in the world. This means that remote workers can access the same files, data, and resources as their colleagues who work in the office, all while keeping their connection secure and private.

How do company VPNs connect remote workers?

When an employee wants to connect to their company's network using a VPN, they first need to download and install a VPN client on their device (such as a laptop or smartphone). The VPN client then connects to the company's VPN server, which is usually located at the company's headquarters.

Benefits.

Once connected, the employee can access the company's network as if they were in the office. This means that they can access files and resources that are only available on the company's network, communicate with colleagues using secure channels, and even participate in virtual meetings.

But that's not all. Using a VPN also means that the employee's connection is encrypted, which makes it much harder for hackers and cybercriminals to intercept their data. This is especially important for employees who work with sensitive information, such as customer data or financial records.

Challenges.

Of course, there are some challenges that come with using a VPN to connect remote workers. For one, companies need to ensure that their VPN is set up properly and that their employees are using it correctly. They also need to make sure that their VPN is fast and reliable, since slow or unreliable connections can hinder productivity.

But overall, using a VPN to connect remote workers is a smart move for companies that want to embrace the benefits of remote work while keeping their data and communications secure.

Do VPNs also connect locations?

In addition to connecting with their remote workers, companies can also use VPNs to connect branch office locations securely, and also connect with their partners and vendors. By creating a secure connection between their network and another company's network, they can share information and collaborate on projects without compromising their security.

The future of remote work and VPNs.

As more companies embrace remote work and more employees work from home, the demand for VPNs is only going to increase. VPN technology is also evolving, with new features and capabilities being added all the time. For example, some VPNs now offer split tunneling, which allows employees to access both their company's network and the public internet at the same time. Others offer more advanced security features, such as multi-factor authentication and intrusion detection.

So there you have it: the power of VPNs in the world of remote work. Whether you're a small startup with a few remote employees or a multinational corporation with workers all over the world, a VPN will help you connect with your team and keep your data and communications secure. Your remote workers (and your business) will thank you.

What does Allied Telesis offer?

Our portfolio of security products use OpenVPN to connect remote workers, with easy web-based configuration. They also offer IPsec VPNs for connecting multiple offices. You can use our reliable hardware on-site or host your firewall on the cloud with AR4000S-Cloud.