Ever wonder how secure your business data is when your team members work remotely? Using the best VPN for small businesses can help keep sensitive information safe and private. Choosing the right VPN solution is crucial for protecting your company’s data and ensuring smooth operations.
In this article, we’re diving into the best VPN services designed for small businesses. We’ll explore trusted options that offer security features, ease of use, and scalability to fit your needs.
Let’s find the VPN that suits your business perfectly.
13 Best VPNs for Small Businesses in 2024
In selecting the right VPN for small businesses, understanding what each service excels at can make a big difference. Here’s our list of the top VPNs and what they do best:
We evaluated each service based on functionality and performance to ensure that small businesses find a VPN that fits their needs efficiently. Each service offers something distinct, ensuring diverse options for various operational needs.
- Perimeter 81: Best for Zero-Trust Business Security
- Twingate: Best for Flexible Access Control
- NordLayer: Best for Scalable Team Solutions
- ExpressVPN for Teams: Best for High-Speed Corporate VPN
- Surfshark for Teams: Best for Affordable Business Use
- CyberGhost for Teams: Best for Easy Employee Privacy
- Private Internet Access: Best for Customizable Security Settings
- IPVanish for Teams: Best for Remote Workforce Securitym
- Proton VPN for Business: Best for Privacy-Focused Companies
- HideMyAss for Teams: Best for Global Server Accessibility
- ZenMate for Teams: Best for Simple Setup and Use
- Windscribe: Best for Small-Scale Businesses
- Mullvad: Best for Anonymous Corporate Use
This list identifies what each VPN does best, making it easier for small businesses to choose the right one.
Perimeter 81
Perimeter 81 is a leading choice for businesses seeking a secure and reliable VPN solution. It offers a range of features that cater to small businesses, emphasizing security and ease of use. Below, we explore the benefits, user experiences, and pricing details associated with this platform.
Pros & Cons
- Strong security protocols
- Easy-to-use interface
- Excellent customer support
- Supports multiple device connections
- Offers cloud VPN capabilities
- Pricing might be higher than some competitors
- Limited customization options for advanced users
Our Experience
Using Perimeter 81 has been largely positive. We found the interface clear and intuitive, making it easy for team members of all tech levels to navigate. The setup was straightforward, which is a huge plus for small businesses without dedicated IT staff.
The security features are reliable, with encryption standards that ensure data safety. Performance was generally excellent, with stable connections and minimal downtime. The customer support was responsive, addressing our questions quickly and professionally.
One drawback was the lack of in-depth customization, which could limit users with more specific needs. Overall, Perimeter 81 provided a reliable and user-friendly experience that matched the security expectations of a modern small business.
Pricing Plan
Perimeter 81 offers several pricing tiers based on the number of users and specific needs of the business. As of now, their basic plan starts at $8 per user per month, which includes essential features such as secure network access and mobile access.
For businesses needing more advanced features like dedicated gateways or additional support, there are higher-tier plans. These plans start at $12 per user per month.
Customized quotes can also be arranged for larger enterprises or specific requirements. Pricing flexibility and the variety of plans cater well to the budgets and needs of small businesses.
Twingate
Twingate offers a modern approach to VPNs tailored for businesses that value security and ease of use. It stands out by eliminating unnecessary exposure to the internet while maintaining a straightforward setup process. Here, we explore its benefits and drawbacks, share our firsthand experience, and provide an overview of its pricing structure.
Pros & Cons
- Easy to set up and manage
- Supports split tunneling and zero-trust access
- Scalable for complex workflows
- A strong endorsement from tech teams
- It may require some adjusting for companies used to traditional VPNs
- Limited free plan options
Our Experience
Twingate excelled in simplicity and speed when we used it. The setup was quick, allowing us to be up and running in about 15 minutes. The interface was intuitive, making it easy to manage access policies.
This was particularly important for our IT team, who appreciated the platform’s efficient security features.
Our engineers were impressed by how Twingate handled complex workflows seamlessly. Many traditional VPN solutions struggle here, making Twingate a preferred choice.
However, adapting to Twingate from conventional setups did involve a slight learning curve. Overall, the experience was positive, with few hiccups during deployment.
Pricing Plan
Twingate provides flexible pricing plans to suit different business needs:
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Free Plan: Allows up to 5 users and 1 admin to access up to 10 remote networks. This can be a good start for very small teams.
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Pro Plan: Offers enhanced features, including more admin controls and support, which is ideal for growing businesses.
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Bulk and customized pricing options are available for larger enterprises, offering additional scalability and support features.
Pricing details can vary, so we recommend checking their website for the most current and precise information. This transparency in pricing ensures that businesses can choose the option that best fits their needs.
NordLayer
NordLayer is designed to help small businesses securely connect their teams, regardless of their location. It offers features that fit well for enterprises that need flexible networks and strong encryption.
Pros & Cons
- Easy setup and configuration
- Strong AES 256-bit encryption
- Supports multiple devices
- Scalable for growing businesses
- Centralized billing options
- It may require technical knowledge for full utilization
- Pricing can be high for smaller teams
- Limited features on some pricing tiers
Our Experience
Using NordLayer, we found the platform intuitive, with a clean interface that made managing the VPN straightforward. The installation process was clear, and most devices only took a few minutes to install.
We appreciated the security measures, like AES 256-bit encryption, which ensured data remained private.
Performance was generally reliable, with minimal connectivity issues. However, accessing advanced features occasionally requires additional expertise, which might not be ideal for businesses lacking IT support.
The customer service was responsive and helpful, addressing any questions we had promptly.
Overall, NordLayer delivered a solid performance and strong security features that made it a dependable choice.
Pricing Plan
NordLayer offers multiple plans designed to fit different business needs. Currently, pricing starts at $7 per user per month, billed annually. This plan includes essential features, such as secure remote access and centralized billing.
For businesses needing more advanced features like dedicated servers and custom gateways, prices increase.
These additional features cater to firms requiring enhanced security and broader control options. Businesses can customize their plans to scale up or down depending on their usage needs, offering flexibility for companies at various stages of growth.
Investing in NordLayer’s comprehensive plans ensures that businesses are equipped with the needed tools to maintain secure and efficient operations.
ExpressVPN for Teams
ExpressVPN for Teams offers high-speed connections, top-notch security, and a wide server network, making it a reliable choice for businesses needing an efficient VPN. While the cost is on the higher side, the performance and features ensure good value for businesses needing reliable online protection and privacy.
Pros & Cons
- High-speed connections with Lightway protocol
- Extensive server network in 100+ countries
- Strong security and privacy policies
- Easy-to-use interface on various platforms
- More expensive compared to other VPNs
- Limited additional security tools
- No port forwarding capability
Our Experience
Using ExpressVPN for Teams was straightforward. The installation process was smooth, and the interface is intuitive, which is ideal for team members who might not be tech-savvy.
We found the connection speeds to be consistently high, making it easy to stream and conduct video calls without any lag. The broad server network is a major benefit, allowing us to connect reliably from various global locations.
Security is a primary strength. The VPN provides advanced encryption, and the no-logs policy is reassuring in protecting our online activities. The split tunneling feature was particularly useful, allowing us to choose which apps needed VPN protection.
While the overall security tools could be more comprehensive, the essentials are covered, giving us confidence in its ability to safeguard our data.
Pricing Plan
ExpressVPN for Teams has several plans. The one-year plan costs $6.67 per month, which is a good choice for long-term use. For those who prefer shorter commitments, the monthly plan is $12.95.
These prices reflect the high-level security and performance ExpressVPN offers, but they may be steeper than some other options. There is also a 30-day money-back guarantee to try the service risk-free, which adds confidence to making a purchase.
Surfshark for Teams
Surfshark for Teams offers a balance between security and affordability, making it suitable for small businesses wanting reliable VPN protection. Let’s explore its pros and cons, our hands-on experience, and the pricing options.
Pros & Cons
- Affordable and scalable for growing businesses
- User-friendly interface
- Strong security features
- Unlimited device connections
- Higher pricing compared to individual plans
- Requires a minimum number of licenses
Our Experience
We found Surfshark for Teams to be a strong solution for small businesses needing effective cybersecurity. The interface is intuitive, letting users connect easily without technical knowledge.
The unlimited connections are a big plus, allowing every device in the business to be secured without additional cost.
The security features are impressive. AES-256 encryption and an automatic kill switch contribute to strong data protection. However, the requirement for a minimum of five licenses can be limiting for very small teams.
Nonetheless, the overall performance is reliable, with consistent speeds and low latency during our tests.
Surfshark for Teams is indeed a practical tool for small to mid-sized businesses, offering comprehensive solutions tailored to business-specific needs, though not without its small caveats.
Pricing Plan
Surfshark Teams offers several pricing plans. The basic Surfshark Starter plan is the most affordable and best suited for smaller teams. A more advanced option is Surfshark One, which includes additional features like an identity protection service.
Pricing can vary depending on the features chosen and the number of licenses required, with a minimum of five licenses needed to get started. Businesses are encouraged to request an offer through the Surfshark website for specific pricing details and custom plans.
CyberGhost for Teams
CyberGhost is a user-friendly VPN that provides privacy and security features that are suitable for teams. Despite not having a dedicated business VPN option, its comprehensive security features make it a viable choice for small business environments. Here, we look at its benefits, actual usage, and available pricing plans.
Pros & Cons
- Strong security features
- Easy-to-use interface
- Good speed performance
- Extensive server network
- No dedicated business option
- Advanced features may require configuration
- Customer support can be slow
Our Experience
In our experience, CyberGhost impressed us with its straightforward setup and diverse security options.
The interface is intuitive, facilitating easy navigation even for those new to VPNs. Connection speeds remained stable across various servers, making it great for productivity.
On the downside, the lack of a dedicated business feature may be limiting for some companies. Additionally, during peak times, we found that customer support could be slower than expected in responding to queries.
Despite these issues, CyberGhost’s consistent performance and user-friendly design make it a solid choice for team use.
Pricing Plan
CyberGhost offers several pricing plans that are competitive. The longer the commitment, the lower the monthly cost tends to be. While specific pricing details can vary, the rates are often strategic for small businesses looking to balance cost with quality.
Monthly plans offer flexibility but come at a higher cost. Subscribing for a year or more reduces the monthly rate significantly.
It’s crucial to monitor CyberGhost’s website for the most current pricing information, as they frequently have promotions or discounts for new customers.
Private Internet Access
Private Internet Access (PIA) offers a balance of privacy features and affordability. It caters to small businesses through its reliable and secure VPN services. Below, we explore PIA’s advantages, drawbacks, and pricing.
Pros & Cons
- Excellent privacy and security features
- Offers a dedicated IP option
- Supports multiple devices
- The user interface can be confusing for new users
- Speeds may vary depending on the server load
Our Experience
When we used Private Internet Access, we noticed the strong emphasis on privacy. The encryption protocols were advanced, ensuring data safety. We appreciated the compatibility with many platforms, making it simple for our team to integrate PIA across different devices.
However, the user interface took some time to get used to. New users might find it a bit overwhelming at first. Despite this, the connection was stable during our usage, although speed fluctuated occasionally during peak times.
These fluctuations did not heavily impact our activities but may be noticeable for bandwidth-intensive tasks. Overall, PIA’s solid privacy measures make it a reliable choice for small business needs and protection.
Pricing Plan
Private Internet Access offers several pricing plans to accommodate different business needs. Currently, the monthly plan is priced at $11.95.
Additionally, there is a yearly option that costs $39.95, which is more economical than the monthly subscription. For even more savings, there’s a three-year plan available at $79, offering significant savings for long-term use.
These competitive prices, especially for long-term plans, make PIA an attractive option for cost-conscious businesses looking for a secure VPN solution.
IPVanish for Teams
IPVanish is a solid choice for teams needing strong security and fast connections. Known for flexibility and privacy, it provides essential features that suit collaborative environments. Below, we discuss its strengths, our hands-on insights, and cost details.
Pros & Cons
- Fast and reliable connection speeds.
- Strong encryption ensures privacy.
- No logs policy enhances security.
- User-friendly interface.
- Supports multiple devices.
- Some servers may experience downtime.
- Limited customer support.
- Less global server coverage compared to some competitors.
Our Experience
Using IPVanish, we found that its security features are efficient, and the interface is intuitive. The experience of setting it up was straightforward, even for less tech-savvy team members.
Performance-wise, connection speeds were consistently fast, which was crucial during video conferences and large file transfers.
However, we did encounter occasional server downtimes. While it wasn’t frequent, it did disrupt our work briefly. Customer support responded but took longer than expected to resolve issues.
Despite this, the privacy assurance with no logs policy gave us protection for data security.
Pricing Plan
IPVanish offers various pricing plans designed to fit different needs. Monthly plans start at approximately $11.99, but subscribing to an annual plan reduces the cost significantly to about $4.50 per month when calculated annually.
There are also options for two-year subscriptions, which further lowers the monthly expense. This pricing strategy allows flexibility for teams to choose the best value for their usage.
Proton VPN for Business
Proton VPN offers a secure solution for businesses with its comprehensive set of features and global server network. Its focus on privacy and security makes it a strong choice for organizations looking to protect their online activities.
Pros & Cons
- Extensive global server coverage
- Strong commitment to privacy
- Unique features like Secure Core and Stealth protocol
- Speeds can sometimes be inconsistent
- Chrome extension could be improved
Our Experience
Using Proton VPN for business has been a balanced experience. The setup is straightforward, and the interface is user-friendly.
We found the server network impressive, especially with coverage in areas that other VPNs often neglect, like Africa and Asia. This has been invaluable for accessing content globally.
However, while it shines in security and privacy, speed can vary. In our tests, some connections didn’t reach the speeds we expected.
Despite this, the privacy features were outstanding, with advanced encryption and unique options like VPN Accelerator and Secure Core, which provide a reliable shield.
The platform’s design is sleek and professional, giving a positive user experience overall. Despite some minor issues with the Chrome extension, such as connection stability, Proton VPN remains a strong contender in the VPN market.
Its mix of features and privacy focus make it appealing to businesses seeking a dependable VPN solution.
Pricing Plan
Proton VPN offers business plans that cater to various needs. Proton VPN Essentials starts at $5.99 per user per month. For enhanced security, the Proton VPN Professional plan is available for $8.99 per user monthly.
Each plan provides different features, and the commitment to privacy is consistent across them. There is also a dedicated server option that starts at €35.99 per month if committed for two years.
These competitive prices align with the quality of service provided, ensuring value for businesses investing in cybersecurity.
HideMyAss for Teams
HideMyAss (HMA) for Teams provides an effective virtual private network solution for businesses of all sizes. It’s known for reliable security features and efficient network management capabilities. Teams can expect secure data transfers and enhanced privacy.
Pros & Cons
- Fast connection speeds
- Strong encryption protocols
- User-friendly interface
- Global server coverage
- Limited advanced settings
- It can be pricey for small teams
- Past privacy concerns
Our Experience
Using HMA for Teams, we found the setup process quite straightforward. The platform’s user interface is intuitive, making it easy to navigate for those who might not be tech-savvy.
Connection speeds were consistently fast, ensuring smooth data transfers and reliable performance across different tasks.
Security was a high point, with strong encryption protocols that helped protect sensitive business data. We appreciated the extensive global server coverage, which allowed for stable connections from various locations.
Despite these strengths, we noticed a lack of advanced customization options, which might not satisfy users looking for deeper control over the VPN settings.
Pricing Plan
HMA offers flexible pricing plans tailored for businesses. They provide different packages based on the number of devices and duration of service.
Monthly plans start at around $11.99 per device, while annual subscriptions offer discounts, bringing the cost down to approximately $6.99 per device per month.
For larger teams, volume licensing can provide more cost-effective options. Businesses should consider their specific needs and the number of devices to choose the most suitable plan.
ZenMate for Teams
ZenMate for Teams offers small businesses a reliable VPN service with various features. In this section, we’ll discuss its advantages and disadvantages, share our personal experiences using it, and provide details about the pricing plans available.
Pros & Cons
- Easy-to-use interface
- Strong encryption standards
- Supports multiple devices
- Good customer support
- Limited advanced features compared to competitors
- Variable connection speeds at times
Our Experience
Using ZenMate for Teams, we found the setup to be straightforward, which is great for teams without a dedicated IT department. The interface is user-friendly, allowing us to connect devices easily and navigate through options without hassle.
Security was a top priority for us, and ZenMate didn’t disappoint. It uses advanced encryption to protect data, which protects us when working online.
Connection speeds were generally good, though we did experience occasional slowdowns during peak usage times.
ZenMate’s customer support was responsive and helpful, providing solutions promptly when we faced any challenges.
Pricing Plan
ZenMate offers a flexible pricing structure that’s appealing to small businesses. They provide discounted rates for larger teams, which can be beneficial for growing companies.
The service tends to cost around $9.99 per user monthly, but discounts are available for annual subscriptions, potentially reducing costs significantly.
For small teams, customizing plans for specific needs is possible, providing additional savings. This makes ZenMate for Teams an accessible option for those looking to balance quality and cost-effectiveness.
Final Analysis
After examining various options, our top recommendation for a small business VPN is NordLayer. It stands out due to its comprehensive security features and adaptability to business needs.
Key Features:
- AES 256-bit encryption
- Support for IKEv2/IPsec, OpenVPN, and WireGuard protocols
- Offers CyberSec malware and ad-blocking tools
Why Choose NordLayer: Its strong focus on privacy and security makes it a great choice for businesses. With its easy integration and centralized management, it caters to both tech-savvy teams and those new to VPN technology.
Moreover, flexible pricing options align with different business sizes, making it a cost-effective solution. According to TechRepublic, NordLayer is highly rated for overall performance and user satisfaction.
Evaluating user reviews highlighted that this VPN provides consistent connectivity and reliable customer support. This makes it a preferred choice for businesses seeking to enhance their online safety and protect sensitive data.
Our Comprehensive Testing Approach
We began by scouring the VPN market for small businesses. This involved identifying top contenders like:
Perimeter 81
Twingate
NordLayer
ExpressVPN for Teams
Surfshark for Teams
CyberGhost for Teams
Private Internet Access
IPVanish for Teams
Proton VPN for Business
HideMyAss for Teams
ZenMate for Teams
Windscribe
Mullvad
These selections are known for their reliable features and positive reputation.
Our next step was to narrow down our selection. We focused on factors relevant to small businesses such as security features, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness. After identifying the best options, we conducted head-to-head testing to discover their strengths and weaknesses.
Our testing centered on a set of clear criteria:
- Security: We looked for military-grade encryption and no-logs policies.
- User Experience: We evaluated how intuitive and accessible each VPN is for users.
- Support: We assessed the responsiveness and helpfulness of customer support.
- Scalability: We checked how well each VPN can grow with a business.
We utilized real-world scenarios to mimic typical business environments during our evaluations. This process gave us a better understanding of each VPN’s performance under different conditions. By aligning our testing process with the needs of small business users, we ensured that our findings are practical and relevant.
What is a VPN for Small Business?
In simple terms, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for small businesses is a service that protects company data by encrypting internet connections. It helps us maintain secure communication between our team members, especially when they work remotely.
A VPN creates a safe tunnel for our information. This is crucial for businesses, as it keeps sensitive data away from prying eyes. Encryption makes it hard for hackers to access our data, adding a layer of security.
We benefit from a VPN by safeguarding our online activities. Even if we’re using a public Wi-Fi network, our information remains shielded. This ensures that client details and internal communications stay protected.
Some of the main advantages include improved security, increased privacy, and easier access to remote resources. With a VPN, our team members can securely access the company’s network from anywhere in the world. This flexibility is vital for staying connected and keeping operations running smoothly.
Additionally, a VPN helps in bypassing geo-restrictions. This allows us to access websites and services that may be blocked due to location. It also ensures that our online presence appears to originate from a different region, which can be beneficial for conducting international business.
In conclusion, a VPN is an essential tool for securing a small business’s online activities. It not only protects our data but also provides us with the flexibility and security needed to operate efficiently.
Benefits of using a VPN for small businesses?
Using a VPN can provide small businesses with enhanced security. When we connect to the internet, our data travels through various points. A VPN encrypts this data, making it hard for outsiders to intercept and access it. This is crucial for protecting sensitive business information.
Privacy is another significant benefit. When we use a VPN, our IP address gets masked. This helps keep our online actions private from potential snoopers, including our internet service provider. For businesses that handle private customer information, this privacy is invaluable.
A VPN can also ensure secure remote access. Many of us have team members working from different locations. A VPN allows them to connect to the company’s network securely, ensuring that sensitive data stays protected even when accessed remotely.
We may encounter geographic restrictions when accessing various online services. These limitations can be bypassed with a VPN, allowing us to access needed resources regardless of our location. This can be particularly helpful when dealing with global partners or clients.
A cost-effective measure, a VPN doesn’t require significant investment in hardware. Small businesses can leverage existing resources, which helps manage the budget effectively while still getting efficient security benefits.
In addition to the above, VPNs can help in avoiding bandwidth throttling. Some internet providers slow down connection speeds based on usage. Using a VPN can mask our internet activity, potentially avoiding this slowdown and maintaining optimal performance.
What are some things small businesses should look for in a VPN?
When choosing a VPN for small businesses, security is at the top of our priority list. It’s essential to select a VPN that offers strong encryption, like AES 256-bit, to protect our business data. Features such as a kill switch and zero-logging policy are crucial for ensuring privacy and security.
Ease of use is another important factor. We want a VPN that our team can use without extensive training. User-friendly interfaces and clear setup instructions help ensure that everyone can connect and stay protected without a hitch.
Scalability is key for growing businesses. A good VPN should allow us to add more users and devices as our team expands. This flexibility helps us keep everyone connected and secure, no matter how fast we grow.
We should also consider the support for multiple protocols like OpenVPN and IKEv2. These protocols offer different balances of speed and security, allowing us to choose what best suits our business needs.
Cost can be a major deciding factor for small businesses. While we want a solution that fits within our budget, it’s important to remember that sometimes spending a bit more can ensure better features and support. For cost-effective options, looking into monthly or yearly plans may provide discounts.
Finally, reliable customer support is critical. A VPN service that offers 24/7 support can help us resolve any technical issues quickly so our business operations aren’t interrupted. Having a responsive support team can make a big difference in user experience.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best VPN services for small businesses in 2024?
There are several great options for small businesses to consider. NordLayer and Surfshark are popular choices due to their strong privacy features and easy scalability. Each service offers unique strengths, catering to different business needs.
How can a small business benefit from using a VPN?
Using a VPN helps protect sensitive data and maintain privacy. It secures internet connections from potential threats, making it safer to conduct business online. This is especially crucial for businesses handling sensitive customer information or operating remotely.
Which VPNs offer the best security features for businesses?
When it comes to top-tier security, options like Perimeter 81 and Mullvad VPN stand out. These services provide a range of features that cater specifically to business security needs, such as two-factor authentication and strong encryption.
What is the best VPN for remote teams in a small business?
For remote teams, Twingate is a commendable choice. It offers split tunneling and private gateways, which ensure secure and efficient access to business networks from remote locations.
How do VPNs protect small businesses from cyber threats?
VPNs safeguard businesses by encrypting data, which prevents hackers from intercepting information. They also offer features like automatic Wi-Fi protection, adding another layer of security when employees connect to public networks.
What features should I look for in a VPN for my small business?
Key features to consider include strong encryption, no-log policies, and easy integration with existing security systems. Look for VPNs that offer centralized billing and user management, like Windscribe, to make management simpler and more efficient.