VPN stands for Virtual Private Network.  It allows you to connect to a different network securely over the Internet.  They can be useful to protect your business activity when working on public wi-fi as well as a few other roles.  VPNs give you the security by encrypting your internet traffic and hiding your IP address in a secure tunnel.

The VPN allows the device you are working on to connect to another device, for example connects your laptop at home to a device in your office, and then allows you to work on files on that device in your office.  This means that your laptop at home now acts like it is on the network you are connected to and allows you to access the local resources on that network.

Let’s now discuss why you might need a VPN or the circumstances in which a VPN would be highly recommended:

• Using public wifi
• Access to files and data while away from the office
• Privacy online, particularly when travelling

When using public wifi without a VPN anyone else on that network could easily intercept and steal your data such as passwords etc and monitor your online traffic, allowing them to steal your identity.  Using a VPN while on a public network means that your online traffic and the data this creates is within a secure tunnel and is very difficult to intercept.

VPN can also allow you a secure way to access important business data and files on your office network while you are away from this network.  The VPN will provide you with an encrypted connection to help prevent data leakage.

If you are concerned about your privacy online and the data tracking and monitoring that your ISP may be sharing with advertisers and other third parties, a VPN will stop this tracking and protect your privacy from third parties your ISP may share the data with.

If you are considering employing the use of a VPN service and want some more tailored advice and guidance for your circumstances please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team here at MJD we can provide you with the latest encryption and security services.