Did you know that it takes almost six months for most companies to detect a data breach and that it could cost the average company a whopping $3.8 million?

A decade ago, VPNs were a luxury only large corporations could afford. With growing cyber crime rates and customer mistrust, however, they’re becoming a must for all businesses. Why?

1. Cybercrime

Considering that even social media giants like Facebook can be hacked, it comes as no surprise that the #1 reason why every business should have a VPN is cybercrime. The range of modern online crime means that you have to be cautious at every turn: manage your passwords, sign out of your accounts, protect your systems from viruses and malware, etc.

The VPN server acts as a relay between the Internet and your computer. By encrypting your data, the VPN creates an extra layer of security, so your browsing activity, emails, and financial transactions can stay invisible to prying eyes.

Bear in mind that not all VPNs have the same features. Look for one that offers reliable security protocols, such as OpenVPN or IKEv2/IPsec, and has extra security features, such as malware or botnet blocking.

2. Remote work

A VPN will not just protect your employees’ data, it will also help them safely access your company’s intranet. This is essential for companies that have multiple offices or remote workers who spend a lot of time traveling and using public Wi-Fi.

A decade ago, hardware VPNs used to do this job perfectly, but now, businesses are looking for more flexible and scalable solutions such as software VPNs. VPN software like AmanVPN can give your employees a dedicated IP address which can then be used from anywhere in the world so your data is protected and your company’s digital resources are easily accessible.

3. Geo-restricted content

If your employees go on regular overseas trips, they might also need to access other websites that are essential to their jobs, i.e., Facebook, Instagram or Gmail. However, many countries in the Middle East and Asia, especially those with authoritarian governments, restrict access to many popular websites that we take for granted.

A VPN allows you to get around most of these restrictions, even if you’re thousands of miles away. Connecting to a server in your home country means that websites will recognize your IP address as if you’re home. As a result, you will have access to the contents allowed in your country.

4. Safe browsing for your customers

If you own a coffee shop or another business where you offer your clients free Wi-Fi, securing the network is also important. Otherwise, your clients may face the pitfalls of public Wi-Fi and their data could be exposed to hackers.

Make sure that your router is configured so hackers don’t use it against you and try to log in to your customers’ devices. Then you can configure a VPN on your router (or purchase a VPN-enabled router) that will provide your customers with an extra layer of security. It will definitely gain your clients’ trust and appreciation.

5. VPNs are affordable

A VPN app can cost you as little as a few dollars per month/per user, so the service is accessible to any business, large or small.

There’s no reason to compromise your security.