Access to the internet is a requirement for any online business. For many businesses, this is the only way to perform tasks, connect with employees, and keep up with the latest market trends. But the internet isn’t without it’s faults. The risks of cyber-crime, ranging from data-stealing to hacking, have risen dramatically in recent years. Companies, both big and small, have suffered at the hands of hackers and data theft tools, creating a demand for VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) to protect personal data.
What Exactly Is a VPN?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is an application that allows you to access the internet through a server controlled by a provider. Simply, a VPN is a program or piece of software that hides your online identity and allows you to access the web anonymously. It increases the safety of your online activities while also allowing you to visit blocked websites if necessary. Every VPN does have its own set of features, advantages, and drawbacks. All VPN providers have their very own websites that provide thorough information about the services offered. There are hundreds of VPN providers to select from, and the sheer number of possibilities makes it tough to pick the appropriate one. It may also be difficult to visit each website and make a decision. VPNs at DigitalSupermarket have designed a comparison method to make it much easier for you to choose the best features, compare prices and get great deals all under one platform. The platform allows you to choose up to 10 VPNs and compare them simultaneously. But before you get to that, let’s discuss some primary factors to consider when selecting the best VPN service for your online business in 2021:
#1 Internet Speed
One thing to keep in mind is that any VPN will slow down your regular internet connection. It is common due to the VPN’s encryption mechanism, which redirects your online traffic through a secure, encrypted server. As a result, good VPNs will only reduce the speed by a slight fraction, whereas low-quality and sometimes free VPNs will considerably slow down your internet connection. A speed test can determine the upload speed, and loading time of a VPN. Select a VPN service that provides consistent, fast results. Also, opt for VPN services that have an excellent uptime (99.9% if possible) and don’t have any speed or bandwidth restrictions that slow down your download/upload speeds significantly when you hit a specific bandwidth consumption level.
#2 Compatibility Across Platforms
Although most VPNs support all primary platforms, including Mac, Windows, Android, and iOS, many do not. If you use a Windows PC but an Android phone, be sure your VPN supports both platforms. You should also double-check the number of devices you can connect to at the same time. The top VPN services will include manual settings for Smart TVs, set-top boxes, gaming devices, and other devices that connect to the internet daily. You presumably have at least two other devices that you can use to access the internet, both at home while traveling. It’s just as crucial protecting them with a VPN as it is to protect your PC or laptop. It’s pointless to use a VPN to hide your digital presence on your laptop if you’re not willing to do the same on your smartphone. Overall, when you’re on the internet, a cross-platform compatible VPN helps ensure that your personal information and online profile are never in jeopardy.
#3 Multiple Connections
It’s great that you’re using a VPN on your desktop or laptop. But what if you want to connect all of your household’s gadgets to a VPN? Of course, you’ll need a VPN provider that allows you to connect to numerous sessions at once. Choose a provider that offers at least 5-7 simultaneous connections, especially since the coronavirus pandemic has caused more of us to work from home. What if you wish to secure a wide range of devices in your company? Alternatively, you don’t want to go through the hassle of installing and signing into the app repetitively. You might want to make sure that all of your network’s devices are always protected without having to remember to log in to the VPN. In that situation, a VPN router appears to be a good option. Such routers can easily run VPN software and link to all of your devices without the need for any software installation.
#4 Internet Security
Since the primary goal of installing a VPN is to increase internet security, the most crucial thing to examine is how safe the VPN service/solution is. Sending or receiving online files might be a problem while you are away from your workplace (using a public network) or on a business trip abroad. If you access sensitive information just by using your smartphone and public Wi-Fi, you may face the danger of a data breach. A business VPN network allows you to connect to a secure network that protects your company’s information. The best VPNs for business applications should provide end-to-end encryption, ensuring that your remotely received information is protected from data theft and fraud even when accessed from anywhere and at any time.
#5 Methods Of Payment
Another essential consideration is how you pay for your VPN service. Using a credit card to purchase a service entails disclosing your name, phone number, and billing address. Payment via anonymous means may not appeal to you if you wish to buy a VPN to access a public Wi-Fi network safely while traveling. However, you’ll be interested in anonymous payment options if you wish to protect your online anonymity or avoid government surveillance. Fortunately, several excellent VPN providers provide anonymous payment options like cryptocurrency. No one will ever know that you were the one who paid for the service this way.
#6 Customer Service Is Available
Since the VPN services are constantly evolving, you may reach a level where you’ve encountered a problem. Regardless, one of the most ignored aspects of choosing a VPN is whether or not the supplier offers 24/7 customer support. Customer service in the VPN sector is typically provided through online chat, emails, and chatbots. Choose a provider with a live chat option for rapid responses to your questions. For users new to VPNs, customer assistance is critical in guiding them through the process and ensuring that they become fully familiar with the service.
#7 Approved Protocols
VPNs utilize a wide range of security protocols to protect data as it travels across the network, but not all of them are built the same way. Every protocol comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. PPTP should be avoided at all costs unless you’re into streaming. It’s an out-of-date protocol with inadequate encryption and numerous known security flaws. While PPTP is a great way to access geo-restricted websites and shield your non-sensitive browsing, it isn’t a secure choice. L2TP/IPsec is regarded as a more advanced and secure variant of PPTP. It is far more secure than its predecessor, but it lags in terms of speed. OpenVPN is the greatest all-around protocol since it provides strong security without sacrificing performance. Remember that a reputable VPN service will provide you the option of selecting from all of these alternatives.
Key Takeaway
It can be difficult to choose the right VPN for your online business. Nonetheless, there is no way you can go wrong if you consider these seven factors before purchasing a VPN. In the end, your online business will be safer and more protected than you could have imagined.