Using a VPN for Remote Access to Cloud-based Software - Weekly Sharing

Summary : The advantages of using a VPN for remote access are clear. Not only does it provide enhanced security and access control, but it also enables organizations to streamline their remote operations, promote collaboration between geographically dispersed teams, and protect against cyberattacks.

Cloud-based software, often known as hosted or SaaS is a convenient method for deploying software. Users can access the system through the internet, making it easily accessible. SaaS can be almost any software product. If you need a specialized solution, try Open Source Project Management Software, but for more classic, routine tasks, SaaS is more convenient.

With cloud-based ERP, the software is hosted on hardware and servers managed by the software vendor. Customers can access the system by using the internet, whether it's through an RDP connection or a web browser. It provides a seamless and efficient experience for users. However, in all this rosy story there is a nuance - potential risks when someone remotely connects to the servers. Now we will understand why VPN for remote access is vital for business.

Source: whoa.com

Why use SaaS software?

Cloud-based software offers numerous benefits to businesses. One advantage is the elimination of the need to manage physical hardware or servers where the software is installed. Of course, this is provided that the developer adheres to the principles of cloud computing architecture design. Instead, users gain access to powerful equipment managed by a dedicated team of IT professionals responsible for data backups, maintenance, and upgrades. This not only saves money on purchasing equipment but also eliminates the costs associated with hiring personnel for maintenance. When connecting to cloud-based software, users can do so via RDP, as detailed in the article "RDP and Cloud."

What is a VPN?

A virtual private network (VPN) offers users a safe and secure way to connect to the internet, distinguishing itself from traditional Wi-Fi or wired connections. By hiding the user's IP address, VPNs enhance security by safeguarding personal information against unauthorized access. Hackers who gain access to an IP address can effortlessly retrieve sensitive data, compromising the user's computer. However, with the added advantage of IP address masking, online activities become nearly impossible to trace, providing the utmost protection for the user's privacy and data.

Companies often fail to fully grasp the significance of VPNs, a problem that can put their sensitive data at risk. Surprisingly, despite the fact that a considerable 66% of users utilize VPNs to access streaming services, a mere 6% use them to safeguard employer data, as Forbes highlights. This glaring discrepancy suggests that companies leave themselves vulnerable to potential data breaches while disregarding the severity of the issue.

How does a VPN work?

VPNs offer a friendly and secure method for internet browsing. By establishing a private data tunnel, users can connect their devices to servers in different locations, creating the illusion of being elsewhere. This enables unrestricted access to a wide range of resources, including information, file folders, applications, and tools. With a VPN, enhanced online privacy is assured, providing users with the freedom to explore the internet with confidence.

When data is transmitted over a Wi-Fi network or a hardwired connection, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) employs encryption to transform the data into an incomprehensible format, ensuring the secure availability of crucial information. This can be especially beneficial when accessing safeguarded and private file directories and documents from external locations. By setting up a VPN for remote access, employees are able to effortlessly establish a protected connection to the company network, enabling them to reach local network resources and software systems from any part of the globe.

Why use VPN for remote access to cloud-based software?

Many businesses recognize the value of incorporating a VPN for enhanced security, privacy, and encryption for their remote workforce. For customers accessing our cloud-based ERP software outside the office, employing a VPN is a requirement. This ensures strict control over the hosted environment, as well as the associated software, systems, and files based on the user list provided. Employees within the office benefit from the company's private Wi-Fi network or a direct connection, which further strengthens the overall security posture.

The team is capable of whitelisting the company's IP address, ensuring consistent access to the hosted environment. Whitelisting involves selecting specific IP addresses to permit entry to the hosted environment. consequently, VPN usage is only necessary for employees when they are not working in the office. This convenient approach enables secure access to sensitive data, regardless of the employee's location. Instead of the constant need to update and whitelist changing IPs, access through a VPN is set up for enhanced convenience.

Source: tailscale.com

Benefits of a remote access VPN

To talk about the benefits of a VPN, you must first note that it all depends on your provider. For example, a premium product like VeePN has all of these benefits. If you want a VPN download free from an unknown developer, the chances of your data being tracked increase dramatically. In contrast, VeePN offers a service for all popular platforms. However, the most convenient option for business and home use is VPN for routers. If you install VeePN for a router, all devices connected to it will be protected. This is much more practical than protecting each device individually, but binding to a single point creates undesirable restrictions. For this reason, multi-platform is important and VeePN-level services can be installed on all popular platforms.

#1 Protect against unauthorized users

A premium remote access VPN provides enhanced security by restricting access to internal networks and resources to only authenticated users. It requires users to sign into the VPN client using multi-factor authentication for added protection. Furthermore, users can have their dedicated server to allow for greater control over access.

#2 Limit the threat of cyberattacks

When individuals work remotely, they face an increased vulnerability to cyberattacks. This is confirmed by the sad statistics from Statista, which shows an annual increase in the number of vulnerabilities. If a remote user's device becomes compromised, it could jeopardize the entire network, exposing it to spear phishing and ransomware attacks. However, a secure VPN offers a solution by securely tunneling their data, ensuring protection even when connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi networks. With VeePN or a similar service, users can safeguard their online activities and mitigate potential security risks with ease.

#3 Zero-trust network access

Remote access VPN software is an integral part of a strong zero-trust network infrastructure. In this approach, employees are prompted to authenticate themselves multiple times when accessing different parts of the network. This practice greatly enhances network security, as it becomes considerably more challenging for hackers to exploit a single compromised device and launch attacks on the rest of the network.

#4 Streamline remote access

In the era of remote work, organizations are witnessing a significant transition towards decentralized teams. The integration of a dependable remote access VPN enables businesses to guarantee unhindered access to essential resources for all users, fostering productivity and facilitating efficient collaboration among teams regardless of their physical whereabouts. Embracing a remote access VPN empowers organizations to maintain seamless connectivity and ensure smooth operations for their workforce, irrespective of their geographical dispersion.

Conclusion

The advantages of using a VPN for remote access are clear. Not only does it provide enhanced security and access control, but it also enables organizations to streamline their remote operations, promote collaboration between geographically dispersed teams, and protect against cyberattacks. Additionally, many premium services offer the convenience of multi-platform support and router protection.