10 Best Business VPNs Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 25 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Navigating the intricate landscape of business VPNs can be a daunting task, but I've immersed myself in the nuances of VPN servers, scoured Amazon reviews, sifted through countless FAQs, and conducted thorough VPN reviews to bring you a guide that resonates with your needs. The benefits are substantial, protecting against data breaches, enhancing network security, and allowing remote access to company resources.
I understand that one of the main pain points is finding a VPN that's both robust and user-friendly, capable of handling the diverse needs of a modern business without causing unnecessary complications. I've done the heavy lifting to present options that I believe will suit your specific requirements, and I trust that this guide will lead you to a solution that aligns with your goals.
What Is A Business VPN?
A business VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection over the internet, allowing remote employees and branches to access company resources as if they were on the local network. Primarily utilized by businesses of all sizes, it safeguards sensitive data from potential breaches while ensuring secure communication across various platforms.
From multinational corporations to small enterprises, a business VPN is employed to maintain privacy, ensure data integrity, and provide secure access to shared resources, applications, and systems. Whether connecting remote workers or protecting client information, this tool forms an essential part of a company's cybersecurity infrastructure.
Best Business VPNs Summary
Tools | Price | |
---|---|---|
GoodAccess | From $3/user/month (min 5 seats) | Website |
Surfshark | From $12.95/user/month, with discounts for a longer commitment such as a year plan (billed annually) | Website |
NordLayer | Pricing upon request | Website |
CyberGhost Business VPN | From $2.75/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
ExpressVPN | From $8.32/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Proton VPN | From $4/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Windscribe | From $4.08/user/month (billed annually, min 5 seats) | Website |
Private Internet Access (PIA) Business VPN | From $9.95/user/month, discounts available for a year plan (billed annually) | Website |
VyprVPN for Business | From $24.92/user/month (billed annually, min 10 seats) | Website |
Hotspot Shield Business VPN | From $20/user/month (min 5 seats) | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareBest Business VPNs Reviews
GoodAccess is a cloud-based VPN service designed to secure company networks and provide safe remote access for team members. With a focus on cloud gateway security, GoodAccess offers a zero-trust network approach that ensures robust authentication and secure VPN connections. This makes it the ideal tool for businesses that prioritize cloud security, positioning it as the best option for cloud gateway security.
Why I Picked GoodAccess: I chose GoodAccess after meticulously comparing and judging various VPN providers, focusing on cloud gateway security. What makes GoodAccess different is its emphasis on securing connections through the cloud, making it stand out among other VPN services. I have determined that GoodAccess is 'Best for cloud gateway security' due to its unique architecture and features designed to protect the cloud environment.
Standout features & integrations:
GoodAccess offers a dedicated server for each business, providing improved network security and bandwidth control. It employs 256-bit encryption and offers single sign-on for ease of use. The cloud-based architecture allows integration with existing operating systems like Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android, as well as the ability to set specific permissions for different team members.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cost-effective pricing for small businesses with a minimum requirement of 5 seats
- Integration with multiple operating systems and platforms such as Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android
- Specialized in cloud gateway security with zero-trust network approach
Cons:
- The requirement of a minimum of 5 seats may not suit very small teams or individual users
- Limited number of servers compared to other VPN providers
- May lack some advanced features found in consumer VPNs
Surfshark is a highly-regarded VPN provider that offers a wide range of security features and VPN connections to its users. It caters to small to medium businesses by providing a secure and easy-to-use solution, making it the ideal choice for those who are looking for cost-effective yet robust VPN options.
Why I Picked Surfshark: I chose Surfshark after carefully comparing and judging various VPN services. What makes Surfshark stand out is its combination of affordability, comprehensive features, and a user-friendly interface, tailored for small to medium-sized businesses. I found it to be 'Best for small to medium businesses' as it offers a balanced approach that meets the security needs without overburdening the budget, a critical factor for growing companies.
Standout features & integrations:
Surfshark comes with a plethora of essential features, including AES 256 encryption, a kill switch, and a zero-trust security model. It also offers split tunnelling and a DNS leak protection mechanism to provide secure internet connections. The tool integrates smoothly with various operating systems such as Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux, making it versatile for a range of business needs.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers compatibility with a multitude of operating systems, improving ease of use
- Provides AES 256 encryption and a kill switch, ensuring robust security features
- Affordable and scalable, fitting for small to medium businesses
Cons:
- Although user-friendly, its functionality might not meet the requirements of larger enterprises or those with complex network security demands
- Some users may find the network access and simultaneous connections limited
- Lacks dedicated account manager support for personalized service
NordLayer is NordVPN’s secure connectivity solution designed for business needs, enabling team members to access company data safely and collaborate efficiently. By offering tools tailored specifically for team collaboration, NordLayer ensures that teams can work together without sacrificing security, making it best for this specific requirement.
Why I Picked NordLayer: I chose NordLayer for this list after careful comparison with other VPN providers, focusing on the functionality it offers for teams. What makes NordLayer stand out is its emphasis on team collaboration, complete with features like secure VPN connections, dedicated account managers, and access control. These aspects determined my judgment that NordLayer is 'Best for team collaboration' as it addresses the unique demands of teamwork in today’s remote work environment.
Standout features & integrations:
NordLayer provides advanced security features like 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy, ensuring that collaboration happens in a secure environment. The tool integrates with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux, and offers a user-friendly interface that improves ease of use for team members. NordLayer also provides a dedicated server option, supporting smooth collaboration across different regions.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, ensuring satisfaction for business plan customers
- Integrates with popular operating systems like Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux
- Tailored for team collaboration with features like secure VPN connections and access control
Cons:
- The focus on team collaboration might leave individual users seeking more personalized features
- May lack some advanced customization options found in other corporate VPN solutions
- More expensive for small business users due to the minimum seat requirement
CyberGhost Business VPN is a renowned VPN provider that offers improved privacy and security for business users across a broad range of operating systems. What sets CyberGhost apart is its expansive network of servers, boasting more than 7,000 servers in over 90 countries. This vast network of server locations positions CyberGhost as the best choice for businesses requiring diverse server locations to meet various geographic and regulatory needs.
Why I Picked CyberGhost Business VPN: I chose CyberGhost Business VPN after carefully comparing and judging its capabilities with other VPN providers. The determining factor was its extensive array of server locations, something that offers businesses flexibility in accessing data and services from various regions. This wide range of server locations is what makes CyberGhost stand out, and I believe it's the 'Best for diverse server locations,' meeting the specific business needs of global companies that require connections to multiple countries.
Standout features & integrations:
CyberGhost offers high-level security features such as 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and OpenVPN protocol. It provides great functionality for small business and corporate VPN needs, with dedicated IP addresses and simultaneous connections across multiple devices. Additionally, CyberGhost integrates with various platforms like Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android, making it suitable for different business scenarios.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly apps for multiple operating systems such as Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android
- Strong security features including 256-bit encryption and OpenVPN
- Extensive network with over 7,000 servers in more than 90 countries
Cons:
- Some users might find the interface less intuitive compared to other VPN providers
- The low monthly price is available only with a year plan
- Lack of dedicated account manager for personalized customer support
ExpressVPN is renowned for its consistent and robust VPN services, ensuring an internet connection without compromising security. Its commitment to providing reliable access across various locations makes it best for consistent reliability, particularly for businesses and individuals who require unwavering network stability.
Why I Picked ExpressVPN: I chose ExpressVPN after carefully judging and comparing the quality of service and reliability it offers against other VPN providers. What sets ExpressVPN apart is its strong network of servers and consistent performance, enabling users to maintain a secure VPN connection without interruptions. I believe ExpressVPN is 'Best for consistent reliability' due to its focus on ensuring uninterrupted access, advanced security features like aes 256-bit encryption, and a track record of protecting against data breaches and hackers.
Standout features & integrations:
ExpressVPN offers key security features such as a kill switch, zero-trust architecture, OpenVPN, and split tunnelling, allowing users to customize their security preferences. The tool integrates with various operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android, providing a user-friendly interface. Additionally, the large number of servers ensures that users can maintain a reliable connection in various locations around the world.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, providing confidence in the service
- Advanced security features like 256-bit encryption, kill switch, and OpenVPN
- Exceptional reliability through its vast network of servers and consistent performance
Cons:
- Users looking for more advanced corporate VPN features may find some limitations in functionality
- Limited dedicated IP address options may hinder some specific business needs
- Slightly higher pricing compared to some consumer VPNs
Proton VPN is a secure and privacy-focused VPN provider known for its integration with ProtonMail, a secure email service. This synergy between a secure VPN and email makes Proton VPN an ideal choice for individuals and businesses looking to combine the security of their internet connection with their email communications. Proton VPN's alignment with secure email solutions renders it the best option for those prioritizing this integration.
Why I Picked Proton VPN: I chose Proton VPN for this list after comparing and judging its unique integrations, particularly with secure email services like ProtonMail. This integration makes it stand out from other VPN providers, ensuring that not only the internet connection but also email communications are kept secure and private. Therefore, Proton VPN is the 'Best for integration with secure email,' offering a combination of secure VPN connections and email services that few other providers offer.
Standout features & integrations:
Proton VPN offers strong security features such as AES 256 encryption, OpenVPN, and IKEv2/IPsec protocols. The kill switch and DNS leak protection add another layer of security to its offerings. But what truly sets Proton VPN apart is its integration with ProtonMail, allowing users to combine secure internet browsing with encrypted email services, all within one ecosystem.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Available on multiple platforms including Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android
- Robust security features like AES 256 encryption and OpenVPN
- Integration with ProtonMail for secure email communication
Cons:
- Some users may find the integration with secure email unnecessary if they don't use ProtonMail or similar services
- Lacks specific business plans tailored to small business needs
- Does not offer a monthly billing option, only annual
Windscribe is renowned for offering a variety of pricing options that cater to diverse business needs, from small enterprises to larger organizations. Its commitment to flexible pricing plans ensures that every business, regardless of its size, can find a plan that fits their budget.
Why I Picked Windscribe: I chose Windscribe after a detailed analysis and comparison of various VPN providers' pricing structures. Windscribe's diverse pricing plans caught my eye, allowing businesses to pick the one that best aligns with their budget and needs. I concluded that it's best for flexible pricing plans as it provides an opportunity for businesses of all sizes to enjoy the essential security features without overstepping their financial boundaries.
Standout features & integrations:
Windscribe offers great functionality with features like a firewall, DNS leak protection, and split tunnelling. It also provides support for OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard protocols. The VPN integrates with various operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, allowing simultaneous connections across multiple devices.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Provides split tunnelling and remote access control
- Compatibility with various operating systems and browser extensions (Chrome, Firefox)
- Offers a wide range of pricing plans suitable for all business sizes
Cons:
- Limited server locations compared to some other top-tier VPN providers
- No 24/7 customer support, which might cause delays in resolving issues
- Lacks a dedicated account manager for business plans
Private Internet Access (PIA) Business VPN is a trusted VPN provider that emphasizes robust privacy controls and secure network access. With its no-logs policy, AES 256 encryption, and a plethora of privacy-focused features, PIA serves as a go-to option for businesses and individuals concerned about maintaining stringent privacy measures. This keen attention to privacy is why I believe it stands out as the best for privacy controls.
Why I Picked Private Internet Access (PIA) Business VPN: I chose PIA Business VPN for this list after judging and comparing it with other contenders based on the privacy controls it offers. What makes PIA different is its staunch commitment to privacy, including a stringent no-logs policy, and the advanced encryption standards it adheres to. I determined that it's 'Best for privacy controls' given its extensive measures to safeguard user data, aligning it perfectly with the needs of businesses that prioritize privacy.
Standout features & integrations:
PIA Business VPN offers key features like DNS leak protection, a kill switch, and OpenVPN support, ensuring secure VPN connections. It also provides bandwidth control and multi-factor authentication, improving its appeal for privacy-conscious users. For integrations, PIA is compatible across various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, ensuring that it can work with different operating systems and devices.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Includes kill switch and DNS leak protection, improving network security
- Offers compatibility across different operating systems, making it user-friendly
- Emphasizes privacy controls with features like no-logs policy and AES 256 encryption
Cons:
- Despite the focus on privacy, it may not offer specialized solutions for large corporations or complex business needs
- Some users might find the interface less intuitive compared to other VPN providers
- Lacks dedicated server options, potentially limiting customization
VyprVPN for Business focuses on offering secure connections with robust security features tailored to business needs. By incorporating measures such as 256-bit encryption, kill switch functionality and DNS leak protection, it has proven to be best for robust security measures.
Why I Picked VyprVPN for Business: I chose VyprVPN for Business after carefully judging and comparing the security features among various VPN providers. What makes VyprVPN stand out is its commitment to maintaining the highest level of security using advanced technologies like Chameleon protocol and OpenVPN. I determined that it's best for robust security measures due to its unique approach to protecting against data breaches, hackers, and malware, offering both functionality and ease of use.
Standout features & integrations:
VyprVPN offers 256-bit encryption, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch feature, providing excellent security for company network access. Their split tunnelling and dedicated server options ensure flexibility for remote access. The service integrates well with operating systems such as Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, catering to different business plans and team members.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Provides dedicated IP address and OpenVPN for customized solutions
- Broad compatibility with Windows, mac, iOS, Android, and Linux
- High-grade security features including 256-bit encryption and kill switch
Cons:
- Limited number of simultaneous connections in the base plan
- Lacks a dedicated account manager for business plans
- Higher starting price may not suit small business
Hotspot Shield Business VPN is a well-known tool that offers VPN services primarily focusing on speed and performance. It ensures a high-speed internet connection for businesses that demand quick access to data, aligning perfectly with its reputation for being the best in the category for speed and performance.
Why I Picked Hotspot Shield Business VPN: I chose Hotspot Shield Business VPN after comparing multiple VPN providers based on their speed and overall performance. What made it stand out is its dedicated technology, known as Hydra, to ensure optimal speed without compromising security. I determined that it is 'Best for speed and performance' since it caters to businesses where a fast connection is critical, including those with remote work requirements or cloud-based applications.
Standout features & integrations:
Hotspot Shield provides top-notch speed through its Hydra protocol, ensuring quick access to company data and cloud-based tools. It offers 265-bit encryption, a built-in kill switch, and IP leak protection to secure VPN connections. Integrations include compatibility with popular operating systems such as Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux, allowing for use across various devices.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Compatibility with a wide range of operating systems
- Comprehensive security features including 265-bit encryption and a kill switch
- Exceptional speed and performance, suitable for businesses that rely on fast internet connections
Cons:
- Limited number of servers, which may affect connection stability in some regions
- Lacks some advanced features like multi-factor authentication and access control
- Higher starting price compared to other VPN providers
Other Business VPNs
Below is a list of additional business VPNs I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Mullvad VPN
Best for anonymous payment options
- PureVPN
Best for global connectivity
- Twingate
Good for distributed workforce connectivity
- Encrypt.me
Good for personal online protection
- OpenVPN
Good for secure remote access
- ZenMate VPN
Good for global server accessibility
- CloudConnexa
Good for cloud-based network solutions
- Norton Secure VPN
Good for consumer-level online privacy
- pfSense
Good for customizable firewall protection
- Ivacy Business VPN
Good for small business network security
- SaferVPN for Business
Good for ease of use in business settings
- Absolute VPN
Good for device and data security
- KeepSolid VPN Unlimited
Good for flexible pricing and plans
- PrivateVPN for Business
Good for corporate data protection
- IPVanish VPN for Business
Good for simultaneous connections across devices
More Business VPN Reviews
Selection Criteria For Business VPNs
Choosing the right business VPN is a critical decision that can greatly impact the security and efficiency of your organization. During my in-depth examination, I've tested and evaluated dozens of VPN tools, focusing on specific functionalities that suit different business needs.
With an array of options available, here's what I've determined to be the most essential criteria when selecting the best VPN services for your business.
Core Functionality
- Secure Encryption: Implementing robust encryption methods like AES 256 to secure data transmissions.
- Multi-platform Support: Supporting various operating systems like Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux.
- Remote Access: Enabling employees to access company networks securely from various locations.
- Geo-restriction Bypass: Allowing access to region-restricted content and services.
- Scalability: Providing flexibility to grow with the business needs, adjusting to increasing users or data load.
Key Features
- Kill Switch: Terminating the internet connection if the VPN disconnects to prevent accidental data leaks.
- Dedicated IP Address: Offering unique IPs for each user, which helps in better tracking and security.
- DNS Leak Protection: Ensuring that DNS requests are routed through the VPN, not the local ISP, for additional privacy.
- Two-Factor Authentication: Adding an extra layer of security by requiring two forms of verification before granting access.
- China Access: Capability to work in regions like China where many VPNs are blocked.
Usability
- User-friendly Interface: Having a clean and intuitive interface that makes it easy for non-technical staff to connect and use the VPN.
- Easy Onboarding Process: Offering tutorials, guides, or a learning library to help new users quickly understand how to use the tool.
- Role-Based Access: Enabling administrators to easily configure permissions and access control based on different employee roles.
- Responsive Customer Support: Providing timely and knowledgeable customer support through various channels like chat, email, or phone.
- Compatibility with Various Devices: Working with different devices including desktops, mobiles, Chromebook, and routers.
In summary, the right business VPN must not only offer secure and reliable connectivity but should also be aligned with the specific needs and structure of your organization. Whether it's about accommodating remote work or protecting against data breaches, these criteria can guide you in making an informed and strategic decision.
Most Common Questions Regarding Business VPNs
What are the benefits of using business VPNs?
Business VPNs offer several advantages, including:
- Enhanced security: VPNs encrypt data, ensuring it remains confidential and protected from potential breaches or interceptions.
- Remote access: Employees can safely access company networks from anywhere, providing flexibility and maintaining productivity.
- Geo-restriction bypass: VPNs allow businesses to access data, resources, or services that may be restricted in certain countries or regions.
- Secure data sharing: Teams can confidently share sensitive data across networks, knowing it is encrypted and secure.
- Protection on public Wi-Fi: Employees working from cafes or travelling can securely connect to public Wi-Fi without the risk of data theft.
How much do these business VPN tools cost?
The cost of business VPNs varies widely based on the features offered, the number of users, and the brand reputation. Some VPNs offer a basic package for small teams, while others are more comprehensive and are priced accordingly for larger enterprises.
What are the typical pricing models for business VPNs?
Business VPNs often have different pricing models, including:
- Monthly or annual subscriptions: Pay a fixed rate every month or year.
- Pay-per-user: The cost is based on the number of users or devices that will be using the VPN.
- Tiered plans: Different plans offer varying features and capabilities at different price points.
What is the typical range of pricing for business VPNs?
The pricing can range from as low as $5/user/month for basic plans, to over $100/user/month for advanced enterprise solutions with a wide array of features.
Which is the cheapest business VPN software?
Prices are continually evolving, and promotional deals can influence this. However, as of the last update, Ivacy Business VPN is one of the more affordable options available.
Which business VPN software is the most expensive?
Again, prices can vary, but solutions like Absolute VPN tend to be on the higher end due to their comprehensive security features.
Are there any free business VPN options?
While there are many free VPNs available for individual use, it’s rare to find free VPNs suitable for business needs due to the higher security standards and features required for corporate use. It’s always recommended to invest in a paid business VPN to ensure optimal security and functionality.
Is it worth investing in a business VPN?
Absolutely. The security, flexibility, and protection provided by business VPNs far outweigh the risks of potential data breaches or cyber-attacks, which can cost businesses significantly in both finances and reputation.
Summary
Selecting the best business VPN is a decision that requires careful consideration of various factors tailored to your specific needs. Understanding the core functionality, essential features, and usability aspects will guide you in making a choice that aligns with your business objectives.
Here are three useful key takeaways to consider in your search:
- Prioritize Security and Functionality: Look for VPNs that offer robust encryption methods, DNS leak protection, and features like a kill switch. These functionalities ensure that your data remains secure and your connections are reliable.
- Consider Usability and Accessibility: Opt for VPNs that offer user-friendly interfaces, role-based access, and responsive customer support. This makes the tool more accessible to all team members and ensures that you can get assistance when needed.
- Align with Business Needs: Evaluate your specific business requirements, such as remote access, scalability, and regional access (e.g., China). Choose a VPN that can grow with your business and meet the unique challenges and opportunities of your industry.
By keeping these takeaways in mind and assessing the criteria detailed above, you'll be better positioned to select a business VPN that fits into your organization's workflow and enhances both security and productivity.
What Do You Think?
If you feel that there's a tool or feature that should be on this list but was missed, please don't hesitate to share your insights and suggestions. Your input helps ensure that this guide stays up-to-date and continues to be a valuable resource for others seeking the best business VPNs.
Feel free to comment below or reach out through our contact page. Your expertise and experience are welcomed and appreciated!