Why Getting a VPN for Small Businesses and Charities is a Worthwhile Investment
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As a small business owner or charity manager, you might think that techy solutions like VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) are only for big corporations or tech wizards. But, I kind of feel like its the opposite. Yes, big corps are more of a target but why would you not want a VPN for your small business? A VPN is actually a smart, accessible tool that can offer significant benefits to organisations of all sizes—including yours. Whether you're running a small team or working solo, a VPN can enhance your security, protect sensitive data, and give you peace of mind. So, let's break it down and see why investing in a VPN is a savvy move for small businesses and charities.
What is a VPN, Anyway?
Let's start with the basics. A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a tool that creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device (like your laptop or smartphone) and the internet. Think of it like a private tunnel through which all your online traffic travels. This tunnel shields your data from prying eyes, such as hackers, making sure your sensitive information stays safe.
If you've worked in a larger organisation, chances are you've already used a VPN without even realising it just through your usual log in. Sometimes you need to actively log in after you’ve signed into say Windows/Microsoft. Employees often use VPNs to securely log into their company's network from home or on the go. And on the go is even more important. If you are a charity and you are dealing with vulnerable people, you may have access to a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system which has these details in it. A VPN logged in and working does protect these people and you from any data breaches.
Let’s face it, an IT team will not be your best friend if you were that person. So the same principle applies here: a VPN ensures that your business or charity's data remains protected, even when working remotely or accessing public Wi-Fi. It’s arguably even more important if you are solo or small in your charitable or business as its unlikely you have a team of IT people on hand to support.
How a VPN Protects You
Imagine you're working at a café, sipping your favourite flat white while updating your website or handling donor information for your charity. Public Wi-Fi can be convenient, but it's also notoriously insecure. Without proper protection, hackers could potentially intercept your connection and steal sensitive information—like login details or customer data.
This is where a VPN comes in to save the day! When you're connected to a VPN, all the data you send and receive is encrypted. That means even if someone does manage to intercept your connection, they won’t be able to read it—it’ll look like gibberish to them. For small businesses handling client details or charities dealing with donor information, this extra layer of protection is a must.
Why VPNs are Good for Small Businesses and Charities
Security on Public Networks
As mentioned, public Wi-Fi is a common threat to online security. A VPN shields your data when you’re working remotely or on the go, making sure sensitive business information stays private.Remote Work Made Safer
VPNs are a game-changer for remote work. If your team is spread out or working from home, a VPN allows them to safely access your business network. It ensures that no matter where they are, your data remains secure. This is particularly useful if you're working with sensitive data or accessing internal systems from various locations.Data Protection & Compliance
If your business or charity handles sensitive client or donor information, you may be subject to regulations like GDPR. A VPN helps ensure compliance by adding an extra layer of data security, which can prevent breaches that could lead to costly fines or damage to your reputation.Avoid Geo-blocking & Censorship
If you're working internationally or with clients in different countries, you may encounter geo-blocking—where certain websites or services are restricted in certain regions. A VPN allows you to bypass these restrictions, helping you maintain consistent access to the tools and services you rely on. For charities working in areas with restricted internet access, this can be especially helpful.
Potential Drawbacks of Using a VPN
Of course, no tool is perfect, and VPNs do have their limitations. Here are a few potential downsides to be aware of:
Slower Internet Speeds
Because a VPN routes your data through a secure server, it can sometimes slow down your internet connection. The extent of this slowdown depends on the quality of your VPN provider and how far away the server is from your location.Cost
While there are free VPN options, they often come with limitations such as slower speeds, ads, or limited server locations. A high-quality VPN service typically comes with a monthly or annual subscription fee. However, for the added security and peace of mind, it's an investment worth considering.
Complexity for Beginners
Setting up a VPN for the first time can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if you're not tech-savvy. However, most VPN providers offer user-friendly apps and customer support to guide you through the process.
Suggested VPN Providers
If you're convinced that a VPN is right for your small business or charity, here are a few reputable providers to consider:
NordVPN
Known for its strong security features and ease of use, NordVPN offers a range of servers across the globe, making it a great choice for businesses of any size. It’s user-friendly, with apps for almost every device, and boasts excellent encryption technology. You can also enjoy features like malware protection and ad blocking. I’ve used NordVPN in previous roles and find it really helpful. Some VPN’s impact your processing speed and can sometimes cause your MS Teams call to freeze your face in a rather unbecoming mid-breath but I never experienced this with NordVPN.
>>You can check out NordVPN here
ExpressVPN
This is another top-tier option with high-speed servers and robust security. It’s perfect if you need fast, reliable connections, especially for tasks like video conferencing or accessing data-heavy applications. They offer a 30-day free trial too.CyberGhost
CyberGhost offers a great balance of affordability and performance, with user-friendly features and a focus on privacy. It’s ideal for small businesses or charities that want top-notch security without breaking the bank. It also allows you to connect up to 7 devices which is quite handy if you have a tablet, laptop, phone, gaming consoles etc. They usually have offers on for the first few years and a decent length of money-back guarantee.Surfshark
One of the more budget-friendly options, Surfshark offers unlimited device connections, meaning you can protect your entire team’s devices under one account. It's a great option for small organisations looking to maximise value and has some additional products that might interest you such as Alternative ID’s and breach alerts. They also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee to test if Surfshark is for you to shield your devices.
Final Thoughts
For small businesses and charities, investing in a VPN isn’t just about protecting your data—it’s about peace of mind. Knowing that your business or charity is safeguarded against online threats means you can focus on what really matters: growing your organisation and making a difference. While there may be some minor drawbacks like cost or a slight dip in internet speed, the benefits far outweigh them, especially in today's increasingly digital world.
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