Guide to choosing the right VPN protocol for your business

Businesses now rely heavily on secure communication between remote employees, partners, and clients. For most businesses, VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) have been the go-to solution to ensure privacy and security. But with multiple VPN protocols available, how do you know which one is the right one for your business needs?

What is a VPN protocol?

A VPN protocol is a set of rules that determine how data is transmitted between your device and the VPN server. Different protocols provide varying levels of security, speed, and reliability. Choosing the right VPN for business requires understanding the balance between security and performance, especially when dealing with sensitive data.

Popular VPN protocols for businesses

These are some of the most common VPN protocols used by businesses today:

1. OpenVPN

OpenVPN is an open-source protocol that is widely regarded for its robust security and flexibility. It uses SSL/TLS encryption, making it suitable for various operating systems and mobile devices. OpenVPN can bypass firewalls and work in restrictive environments, which makes it a strong choice for companies requiring high levels of security. However, OpenVPN may come with a performance trade-off due to its heavy encryption. If security is your top priority, this could be the ideal VPN for business use

2. WireGuard

WireGuard is a newer protocol designed to be simpler, faster, and more efficient than OpenVPN. It uses modern encryption algorithms, making it lightweight and much faster. Businesses that prioritise speed alongside security may find WireGuard to be an attractive option. It’s still relatively new, and while it’s gaining popularity, it may lack the mature features found in OpenVPN. However, its impressive performance in real-world conditions makes it a great VPN for business setups needing fast, secure connections

3. IPsec (Internet Protocol Security)

IPsec is an older protocol that’s still widely used in enterprise environments. It operates at the network layer and is known for its high level of security. IPsec can be paired with other protocols like L2TP (Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol) to provide enhanced encryption and security. Despite its strong encryption, IPsec can be complex to set up and manage, which might not make it the best choice for smaller businesses without a dedicated IT team. However, if you’re looking for a well-established and secure VPN for business, IPsec is a solid option

4. SSTP (Secure Socket Tunneling Protocol)

SSTP is a Microsoft-developed protocol designed to work seamlessly with Windows devices. It uses SSL encryption and is good at bypassing firewalls. However, it’s a less popular option outside the Windows ecosystem, limiting its use across multiple platforms. For businesses heavily reliant on Windows infrastructure, SSTP can be a reliable VPN for business

5. IKEv2/IPsec (Internet Key Exchange, Version 2)

IKEv2 is often paired with IPsec to create a fast and secure VPN protocol. It’s especially good for mobile users, as it supports auto-reconnect when switching networks (e.g., moving from Wi-Fi to mobile data). For businesses with employees who are constantly on the move, IKEv2/IPsec offers a good blend of speed and security, making it a practical choice for your VPN for business

Key factors to consider when choosing a VPN protocol

Selecting the right VPN protocol for your business requires careful consideration of several factors. These include the level of security, performance, compatibility, and scalability needed to meet your organisation’s requirements.

Prioritising Security

If your business handles highly sensitive information, top-tier encryption and security are essential. OpenVPN, IPsec, and WireGuard are strong options for protecting sensitive data. OpenVPN has a proven track record for robust encryption, making it a reliable choice for businesses prioritising security. Meanwhile, WireGuard offers modern encryption standards and faster performance while maintaining strict security measures.

Balancing Security and Performance

While security is crucial, it should not come at the cost of performance. Businesses that rely on smooth and uninterrupted data transfers should consider protocols like WireGuard or IKEv2/IPsec. These protocols deliver speed and efficiency, making them ideal for remote teams or organisations that require fast, reliable connections.

Device and Platform Compatibility

The devices and operating systems your team uses should influence your choice of VPN protocol. OpenVPN is highly versatile, working across platforms like macOS, Android, and iOS. In contrast, SSTP is primarily suited to Windows environments, which may limit its appeal for businesses using diverse systems. For teams working across multiple platforms, OpenVPN or IKEv2/IPsec are excellent choices.

Planning for Scalability

Scalability is a critical consideration for growing businesses. Some VPN protocols handle large numbers of connections better than others. OpenVPN and WireGuard are particularly well-suited for organisations looking to expand their remote workforce, offering reliable performance as your business scales.

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

While VPNs have been a staple for securing business networks, they’re not without their challenges. VPNs often operate on the assumption that once a user is within the network, they can be trusted. This can create vulnerabilities, especially in large or distributed networks. As businesses face increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, it’s time to rethink traditional VPN solutions.

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) is almost like an evolved product of network security. Unlike traditional VPNs, ZTNA operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify.” Instead of granting broad access to network resources, ZTNA continuously validates users and devices, ensuring that only authorised individuals can access specific resources.

CyberHive Connect, for instance, is a ZTNA solution optimised for businesses that want to move beyond traditional VPNs. Offering faster and more secure connections, it significantly reduces attack surfaces by making devices invisible on the internet. If you’re considering upgrading your VPN for business, exploring ZTNA as an alternative might be the next logical step.

VPN vs. ZTNA for your business

Choosing the right VPN for business is important as it impacts your network’s security, performance, and scalability. Protocols like OpenVPN, WireGuard, and IKEv2/IPsec each have their strengths, and the best choice depends on your business’s specific needs. However, as cyber threats evolve, ZTNA solutions like CyberHive Connect can be a compelling alternative, providing secure security with minimal disruption.

Get in touch with us and find out how to make the right choice and take your business’s network security to the next level!