Best Business VPN of April 2024
Published March 26, 2024 at 3:18 pm
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) protects company data and employee traffic via a secure and encrypted connection. IBM reports that global breaches averaged $4.45 million in 2023, and the risks are only growing. Faced with the potentially expensive disaster of a security breach, companies typically want to expand their cybersecurity measures—and that’s where a VPN comes in.
A business VPN is one of the most popular cybersecurity measures. VPNs for businesses offer a protective shield from growing cyber threats through encryption, anonymity and hard-to-pin-down server locations. Companies use different types of small business VPNs to allow employees to access resources from anywhere and connect distributed corporate networks safely.
Our experts have put together the best VPN for businesses, compiling hundreds of reviews and hours of research into the best small business VPNs. Read on to learn more, and to learn what you should look for as you shop for your business VPN.
Our Methodology Our research is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of personal finance services and products that best suit your needs. To help you in the decision-making process, our expert contributors compare common preferences and potential pain points, such as affordability, accessibility, and credibility.
Our Picks - Best Overall: NordLayer
- Best Privacy: Proton VPN
- Best Scaleable: UTunnel
- Best Reliability: ExpressVPN
- Best Ease of Use: Tunnelbear
- Best for Small Business: Perimeter 81
- Best Configurability: TorGuard VPN
- Best Free: Windscribe
- Best Secure Access Solution: Absolute Secure Access
- Best for Network Flexibility: OpenVPN Access Server
- Best Long-Money Back Guarantee: CyberGhost
Best Business VPN of 2024
Best Overall
NordLayer
Why We Chose It
Celebrated for its consistent performance and advanced security features, industry experts recognize NordVPN as a solid choice in the business VPN environment. Nordlayer ensures your proprietary information stays secure via advanced security features, whether you’re on the road or working from home.
Pros
- Fast speeds ensure an uninterrupted online experience
- Easy setup process
- Segment network access
Cons
- More expensive than other VPNs
- Occasional connection instability, especially after updates
- Strict privacy logs make it near-impossible to identify computer access
Additional Information
- Virtual private gateways (VPG)
- Encrypted channels on public WiFi
- No logs policy ensures user privacy
- Maintain compliance requirements
- ZTNA support
Best for Privacy
Proton VPN
Why We Chose It
Proton VPN for Business is brought to you by the same people who created the super-private ProtonMail. The Swiss-based company is committed to anti-censorship and safe internet access for journalists, entrepreneurs and anyone who wants to protect their privacy—and their pre-structured infrastructure allows for the maximum amount of privacy for users compared to other competitors on this list.
Pros
- Competitive speed without sacrificing quality
- Advanced anti-censorship tools
- Strict no-logs policy
Cons
- Limited server options
- No kill switch if the connection drops
- More expensive than others
Additional Information
- Terrific speed test scores
- Premium VPN protocols
- Transparent commitment to customer privacy
- Good value for money
- Adaptive security approach
Best for Scalability
UTunnel VPN
Why We Chose It
UTunnel offers versatility for small to medium-sized businesses and is incredibly easy to scale. This is primarily thanks to its range of features, such as site-to-site VPN services, 2-factor authentication, built-in DNS and Zero Trust Network Access authenticates users at each step of their session for enhanced security.
Pros
- 256-bit encryption
- Single Sign-On (SSO) functionality
- Available worldwide
Cons
- Occasional slow performance
- Some users may dislike 2-step authentication
- Limited cloud backup options
Additional Information
- Secure remote access options
- Zero Trust access for monitoring user logins
- Site-to-site VPN support
- Dedicated VPN server
- Maintains 2000+ servers globally
Best Reliability
ExpressVPN
Why We Chose It
ExpressVPN is highly rated for individuals and remote workers. While it doesn’t have a dedicated business plan, it uses the same level of encryption as banks and governmental agencies, so it’s very secure. Users also praise ExpressVPN for its reliability and connectivity, which is offered without compromising your speed or experience.
Pros
- Savings opportunities when you buy for six or 12 months
- Can connect up to 8 devices
- Universally compatible
Cons
- No dedicated business plan
- Higher prices than other VPNs
- No dedicated internet protocol (IP) address
Additional Information
- Excellent performance
- 24/7 live chat support
- Premier encryption using AES-256 encryption
- Kill switch blocks internet traffic if VPN connection drops
- Servers in 105 countries
Best Ease of Use
TunnelBear
Why We Chose It
Aside from the fun bear theme, TunnelBear gets high marks for performance, usability and privacy. While there’s no specified business plan, TunnelBear would work for many small businesses and uses military-grade encryption to maintain privacy. It can be launched in minutes and is a great VPN for business purposes due to its ease of use.
Pros
- No user limit
- City-level server selection
- Priority customer support available
Cons
- Features can be basic compared to other VPNs
- Limited server locations (especially on the free plan)
- No specific business plan
Additional Information
- Easy to use
- Auto-blocking feature VigilantBear protects against unsecured traffic
- Simultaneous VPN Connections
- Annual independent security audits
- Free plan option for users on a budget
Best for Corporate
Perimeter 81
Why We Chose It
Perimeter 81 offers vigorous security corporate-aligned features, including the ability to activate VPN security features on locked devices. This means employee devices will remain safe while on the road, even if they don’t connect to the VPN.
Pros
- Advanced security features
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Good customer support
Cons
- Limited security features on some plans
- Some plans keep IP logs for up to 60 days
- No free trial
Additional Information
- Easy to use
- Quick deployment
- Scaleable
- Native Zero Trust Network Access
- Automatic WiFi security features
Best Configuration
TorGuard VPN
Why We Chose It
Torguard VPN allows IT admins to allow restricted access as needed, including enabling kill switches if the VPN loses connection for added security. Beyond its advanced configuration features, it also has extended reachability to more restricted international areas; such as China.
Pros
- Advanced configuration features
- Bitcoin support
- Multiple security protocols
Cons
- Complex setup
- No independent security audits
- User-reported latency issues
Additional Information
- Domain Name System (DNS) leak protection
- Customizable plans
- International functionality (including in China)
Best Free
Windscribe
Why We Chose It
Windscribe offers users online security and privacy like all VPNs, and it has a free plan for those on a tight budget. It’s our top pick for the Best Free VPN, as Winscribe offers robust security, unlimited device connections and affordable plans.
Pros
- Free plan available
- Server access in up to 11+ countries
- Static IP address
Cons
- No 3rd-party audit of privacy policy
- Part of Five-Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance
- No live chat support
Additional Information
- Anonymous browsing features
- Customized DNS Available
- Kill switch
- Split tunneling
- Accepts Bitcoin
Best Secure Access Solution
Absolute Secure Access
Why We Chose It
Formerly known as NetMotion by Absolute, Absolute Secure Access is a purpose-built VPN designed for the mobile workforce. Used by many governmental organizations, it offers reliable connectivity even in low-bandwidth settings and role-based permission settings to manage user access—making it one of the best secure access solutions out there.
Pros
- Role-based access
- Self-healing technology
- Compliance friendly
Cons
- May not work with older software
- Limited tech support
- No information on pricing
Additional Information
- Role-based permission settings
- Auditable logging
- Secure Endpoint Editions (SEE)
- ZTNA
- Strong performance even in areas of weak connectivity
Best for Network Flexibility
OpenVPN Access Server
Why We Chose It
OpenVPN Access server is self-hosted so your organization can completely control your VPN servers from deployment, configuration and management. If you prefer the simplicity of a cloud-based solution, Cloud Connexa offers site-to-site connectivity and the critical security features you’d expect from a business VPN.
Pros
- Solid encryption
- Extensive firewall compatibility
- Based on open-source software
Cons
- Can be slow
- Complex setup
- Limited number of servers
Additional Information
- Secure Internet of Things (IoT) Communications
- Protects Software as a Service (SaaS) applications access
- Site-to-site networking
- ZTNA
- Supports Perfect Forward Secrecy (PFS)
Best Long-Money Back Guarantee
CyberGhost
Why We Chose It
CyberGhost gets high marks thanks to its robust security and privacy stance. Based in Romania, it passes independent security audits, offers an extensive server network and offers a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
- 6,700+ servers to date
- Strong encryption options
- Independent security audit
Cons
- Limited device support
- Basic security features
- No kill switch
Additional Information
- 45-day money-back guarantee
- IP masking
- 24/7 support in multiple languages
- Fast service and surfing speed
- Extensive server network
Vault’s Viewpoint: Compare the Best Best Business VPNs of 2024
| Product | Price | Free Trial | No Logs Policy | 30+ Global Server Locations |
| NordLayer | $8+ per user per month | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| ProtonVPN for Business | $8.99+ per user, per month | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| UTunnel | Starts $6+ per month | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| ExpressVPN | Starts at $12.95+ per month | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Tunnelbear | $0-3.33+ per month | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Perimeter 81 | $8+ per month | ✔ | ✔ | |
| TorGuard VPN | $9.99+ per month | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Windscribe | Free plan up to 10 GB with additional features available for $69+ per year or $9+ per month | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Absolute Secure Access | Pricing Available Upon Request | ✔ | ||
| Open VPN | $7+ per month | ✔ | ✔ | |
| CyberGhost | $2.19+ per month | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Learn More About VPNs for Business
Business VPNs differ from consumer-facing VPNs in that they’re designed to support multiple users, providing a secure path for company information to travel. Business VPNs also often offer multi-factor authentication, permission level settings and other advanced security features to ensure proprietary information remains safe.
What Is a VPN?
A business VPN acts as another security layer to protect against cyber attacks. It doesn’t replace cybersecurity measures like firewalls, identity management and physical backups; but it is an important layer to consider in your cybersecurity strategy.
More specifically, VPN technology offers a secure internet connection between employees and an internal network. VPNs for small businesses create a sort of “hidden tunnel” that connects approved people to the VPN server and encrypts all the information sent back and forth.
Not only does the VPN encrypt your data, but it also masks your location because it sends the information through a remote server that can be thousands of miles away. This security measure protects your information from falling into the wrong hands.
How Do VPNs Work?
Cybersecurity Ventures reports cybercrime will mount to $10.5 trillion by 2025. Data breaches can jam your computer systems so they’re inoperable, expose proprietary information and can cost millions to fix. The core focus of VPNs is privacy. With the recent rise in cyber attacks, it’s essential to take steps to keep proprietary information and identities secure 100% of the time.
Both traditional and hybrid business structures can benefit from a quality small business VPN. Whether employees are working from home, the office or on the road, they can connect with the business VPN and work from anywhere securely.
Your company can also rely on the VPN company to manage the security side of things autonomously, or your IT department can take on that piece of your strategy by managing on-site servers with the help and support of your VPN provider.
As an added layer of security, many business VPNs have access control features such as Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA), where the user must authenticate their identity and device before accessing sensitive data. Another popular feature is the kill switch, which means that if the VPN connection drops, the device drops the internet connection to protect the data.
Who Are Business VPNs Best For?
VPNs are valuable additions to any corporate or small business teams—however, they offer additional support and benefits to hybrid and remote workers. Accessing public Wi-Fi comes with many concerns, such as making company data vulnerable to cyber interception and Man in the Middle (MITM) attacks.*
Business VPNs are also helpful for those who need access to location-specific websites. If your organization has remote workers and offices in different countries, for example, your remote workers may need to access geographically specific internal sites using a secure, streamlined communication pathway.
*MITM attacks occur when a cybercriminal intercepts and modifies messages between parties, tricking them into thinking they’re communicating directly.
Types of Business VPNs
There are two main types of business VPNs suitable for different needs.
- Remote Access VPNs—This option allows remote workers to access company materials while remaining cloaked in invisibility. These VPNs are often cloud-based, so they’re easy to access from anywhere with the right login and keep company data safe.
- Site-to-Site VPNs—Many businesses use these if they have multiple offices. Using this model, the VPN tunnel routes all traffic through and between company-owned and operated servers (usually on the office premises). Team members can securely share company materials between them.
How To Choose a Business VPN
There are many options for small business VPNs, yet they vary in ease of use, security features and costs. When business owners compare VPNs, many start by comparing security features, ease of use and scalability.
Our experts have put together a helpful guide below, expanding on each general criterion and offering advice on what to look for, specifically.
Security
VPNs with strong encryption, a no-logs policy and a kill switch will help keep your company’s data safe. You also want to evaluate the speed of your VPN, ensuring that it supports productivity and videoconferencing. Our speed tip? Check your provider’s service locations. If your workforce is spread worldwide, varied server locations will keep your far-flung team communicating.
Ease of Use
No one wants to fumble with clunky technology, and everyone appreciates an easy-to-use interface. The best business VPNs are the ones that are easy to set up and access by your workforce—and bonus points if they have customer dynamic and diverse support options, too.
Scalability
As your business grows, you’ll naturally expect to add users and data. We recommend choosing a business VPN that can grow with your business in terms of users, and that also offers scalable security functions like Zero-Trust Network Access and Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
Other Business VPN Alternatives
Proxies
Proxies can be faster than VPNs, which makes them useful for getting around geo-restrictions or web scraping—but it’s important to remember that both options have different use cases. VPNs encrypt all online traffic for security, and cloak your identity. In contrast, proxies act as an intermediary between the internet and the internet user, and some companies use them as a firewall.
In essence, it acts like a “gatekeeper” to prevent malicious material from breaching the system. They also compress web traffic and remove ads, making the internet browsing experience faster. However, proxies don’t encrypt data—and as such, they may not be secure enough for many businesses.
Identity and Access Management (IAM)
While VPNs allow network access with the right credentials, IAM is role-based access. An example can be seen with Google Doc permissions. When you share a document, you can set the levels as viewer, editor or commenter. Each permission level allows users to complete specific tasks or behave a certain way. IAM works in a similar way except across the entire organization.
Using IAM, administrators can create different access levels for resources across the business. IAM enhances security and reduces the risk of data breaches by creating user groups and applying permissions accordingly. When well implemented, it generally enhances operational efficiency and improves compliance.
Privileged Access Management (PAM)
If IAM offers role-based access to services and resources, PAM takes it one step further. PAM focuses on higher-ups in the company and ensures their secure access to critical infrastructure and other resources. This can be an extremely helpful feature, as some roles (such as IT administrators, database administrators, and help desk workers) may require different levels of access to essential information and organizational resources.
Role-based permission settings also enhance other security measures like VPN encryption to protect the organization from potential security breaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind of VPN Do Companies Use?
Business VPNs are divided into two types: site-to-site and remote access. Remote access VPNs enable a secure connection between employees and the company network. Site-to-site VPNs, conversely, connect multiple sites (such as offices in different locations) so employees can share information easily while maintaining security.
Does It Matter Which VPN I Use?
With the number of VPNs for businesses available, you may wonder how much they really differ. While every business VPN offers privacy, some offer more enhanced security features than others, and some offer other benefits—such as strict no-log policies and dedicated servers around the globe.
With those details in mind, choosing the best VPN for you depends on your needs. If you operate with fewer than ten people working from home, you may be okay with a VPN geared towards individual use. Still, as you grow, you will benefit from access control and other security features.
Which VPN to Use for Company?
When choosing the best business VPN for your organization, consider factors like security protocols, server locations and user authentication methods. You might also consider if the VPN company offers dedicated servers, strict no-logs policies and other enhanced security measures to protect your organization. Ease of use and cost-effectiveness should also play a role in your decision.
Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. We may earn a commission from partner links on Newsweek, but commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.
