In today’s digital landscape, business VPN security has become more critical than ever. With remote work becoming the norm and cyber threats escalating, organizations need robust protection for their sensitive data and network infrastructure. This comprehensive guide explores why Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are indispensable for modern businesses and how to choose the right solution.
The Current State of Business Cybersecurity
The cybersecurity landscape has dramatically shifted in recent years. According to recent statistics, approximately sixty percent of victimized businesses end up shutting down within six months of falling prey to cyberattacks. This alarming figure underscores the critical importance of implementing comprehensive security measures, with business VPNs serving as a foundational element.
VPN usage surged 124% in the U.S. during COVID-19, highlighting how businesses rapidly adapted to remote work security needs. However, business VPN use saw the sharpest decline, falling to just eight percent of adults, suggesting many organizations may be leaving themselves vulnerable.
What Is a Business VPN and Why Does Your Company Need One?
A business VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your employees’ devices and your company’s network, ensuring secure data transmission regardless of location. Unlike consumer VPNs, business VPN solutions offer enterprise-grade features including centralized management, advanced security protocols, and scalable infrastructure.
Key Business VPN Benefits
1. Data Protection and Encryption Business VPNs encrypt all data transmitted between remote employees and company servers, protecting sensitive information from interception. This is particularly crucial when employees access company resources from public Wi-Fi networks or unsecured home connections.
2. Secure Remote Access With distributed workforces becoming standard, VPNs enable secure access to internal systems, databases, and applications from anywhere in the world. This maintains productivity while ensuring security compliance.
3. Network Segmentation and Access Control Enterprise VPNs allow businesses to segment their networks, controlling which employees can access specific resources based on their roles and clearance levels.
4. Compliance and Regulatory Requirements Many industries require specific data protection measures. Business VPNs help organizations meet compliance standards for GDPR, HIPAA, SOX, and other regulatory frameworks.
5. Cost-Effective Security Infrastructure Compared to dedicated private networks, VPNs offer a cost-effective solution for securing business communications across multiple locations and remote workers.
Top Business VPN Providers in 2025
Based on recent expert evaluations and testing, here are the leading business VPN solutions:
1. NordLayer
NordLayer tops our 2025 VPN list for managed network access. This enterprise-focused solution offers:
- Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) architecture
- Cloud-based management console
- Advanced threat protection
- Dedicated IP addresses
Website: NordLayer Business Solutions
2. Surfshark for Business
Surfshark excels in security services, providing businesses with:
- CleanWeb ad and malware blocking
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Static IP options
- 24/7 customer support
Website: Surfshark Business VPN
3. Proton VPN Business
Proton VPN offers dedicated servers & IPs. Key features include:
- Swiss-based privacy protection
- Secure Core architecture
- High-speed dedicated servers
- Advanced encryption protocols
Website: Proton VPN for Business
4. ExpressVPN Business
Known for its robust Lightway protocol, ExpressVPN offers:
- Ultra-fast connection speeds
- Server locations in 90+ countries
- Split tunneling capabilities
- Advanced leak protection
Website: ExpressVPN for Business
5. OpenVPN
OpenVPN provides secure remote access for businesses with self-hosted and cloud-managed solutions offering zero trust network access:
- Open-source flexibility
- Custom deployment options
- Scalable infrastructure
- Industry-standard security
Website: OpenVPN Business Solutions
Common Business VPN Challenges and Solutions
While VPNs provide essential security benefits, businesses should be aware of potential limitations:
Performance Issues 25% of respondents complained of a slower connection speed when using VPNs. Modern solutions like ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol and NordVPN’s NordLynx address these speed concerns.
Connection Reliability 21% of respondents reported experiencing issues with connection drops. Enterprise-grade VPN providers offer redundant servers and automatic failover protection.
Scalability Considerations As businesses grow, their VPN needs evolve. Cloud-based solutions like NordLayer and Surfshark Business provide easy scaling without infrastructure investments.
Implementing Business VPN Best Practices
1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Combine VPN access with MFA to create multiple security layers. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access even if credentials are compromised.
2. Regular Security Audits
Conduct periodic reviews of VPN logs, user access rights, and security policies. This helps identify potential vulnerabilities and ensure compliance.
3. Employee Training
Educate staff on proper VPN usage, recognizing phishing attempts, and maintaining device security when working remotely.
4. Zero Trust Architecture
Companies are increasingly pairing VPNs with other measures (like endpoint security, cloud authentication, and device management) to bolster overall security. Implement comprehensive security strategies beyond VPN protection.
5. Regular Updates and Patch Management
Keep VPN software updated and ensure all connected devices maintain current security patches.
The Future of Business VPN Technology
The VPN industry continues evolving with emerging technologies:
- AI-powered threat detection for real-time security monitoring
- WireGuard protocol adoption for improved performance and security
- Integration with SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) architectures
- Advanced split tunneling for optimized traffic routing
Cost Considerations and ROI
Business VPN investments typically range from $5-15 per user per month for enterprise solutions. Consider these factors when evaluating costs:
- Number of simultaneous users
- Required server locations
- Additional security features
- Support and management services
- Compliance certifications
The ROI becomes clear when compared to potential data breach costs, which average millions of dollars for enterprise organizations.
Making the Right Choice for Your Business
When selecting a business VPN provider, evaluate:
- Security certifications and audit reports
- Server infrastructure and global coverage
- Management tools and administrative features
- Integration capabilities with existing systems
- Customer support and service level agreements
- Scalability options for future growth
Conclusion: Securing Your Business Future
Business VPN security remains a critical component of modern cybersecurity strategies. With around 31% of global internet users employing VPN protection, organizations cannot afford to overlook this essential security layer.
The providers mentioned in this guide—NordLayer, Surfshark, Proton VPN, ExpressVPN, and OpenVPN—represent the current market leaders, each offering unique advantages for different business needs. Whether you’re a small startup or large enterprise, implementing a robust business VPN solution protects your data, enables secure remote work, and provides the foundation for long-term business success.
Don’t wait for a security incident to take action. Evaluate your current security posture and consider how a business VPN can strengthen your organization’s defenses in 2025 and beyond.
Ready to implement a business VPN solution? Contact the providers mentioned above for customized quotes and demonstrations tailored to your organization’s specific needs.