In this digitally connected world where our devices and data are not safe anymore, the importance of VPN manifolds. Also, not all VPNs are the same, as there are some major differences in how they work and what we can achieve from them. From VPNs that help us bypass geo-restrictions to the ones that assist corporations in sending and receiving large data files over a network, different types of VPNs serve unique purposes.
In this article, I will share the types of VPNs that help us stay safe on the internet. So, let’s start:
Personal VPN:
In a personal VPN, a user connects to a VPN server directly via an app or a web browser extension. The device is connected to a remote VPN server, which offers an encrypted and secure tunnel for data transfer. Also, a personal VPN masks the original IP address of the user’s device and assigns it a fake one.
That being said, a major drawback of personal VPNs is the number of servers. Note that this problem rarely occurs with paid personal VPNs. Free VPNs have limited servers and as the traffic increase on them, user’s internet may slow down significantly.
But, obviously, a personal VPN is not the only culprit for slower connectivity. To make sure your internet speed remains unhampered at all times, get a connection that offers symmetrical speeds. Fidium Fiber is one such choice. You may not even feel the slightest dip in your internet connection even after connecting to the busiest VPN server. Connect with Fidium customer service to check its availability near you.
Who Should Use It:
A personal VPN is perfect for those who want to protect their privacy on the internet. As mentioned above, a personal VPN can be used by anyone who wants to access geo-restricted content, for instance, movies, TV shows, or websites. In short, you can use a personal VPN for any personal task.
Best Personal VPNs Available:
- NordVPN
- Surfshark VPN
Remote Access VPN:
Unlike personal VPNs, remote access VPNs are mostly used at the corporate level. The remote access VPN creates a safe passage for data transfer between a user’s device and the enterprise’s network. In most cases, companies provide a remote access VPN to their employees, specifically, remote workers so they can send/receive data safely.
In remote access VPN, the VPN client is installed on the user’s device. When enabled, the user’s device connects to a private network and hence, creates a safe pathway for data transfer. That being said, companies should be aware of permission policies and data practices of remote access VPN. Simply because if granted permission, any user may steal the company’s data.
Who Should Use It?
As mentioned above, a remote access VPN is generally meant for remote employees or digital nomads. Such people may rely on public hotspots or connections and a remote-access VPN can help them send and receive data securely.
Best Remote Access VPNs:
- Express VPN
- Perimeter 81
Site-to-Site VPN:
A site-to-site VPN connection establishes a secure path for data transfer between multiple remote networks. Site-to-site VPNs are quite common for businesses having different branches with separate local area networks (LAN).
A site-to-site VPN creates a safe tunnel for different branches or locations to connect to an intranet; a single private network that enables those branches to communicate seamlessly in a secure manner.
Who Should Use It?
Site-to-site VPNs are quite handy for companies having multiple departments connected to different networks. Healthcare providers or educational institutes can use site-to-site VPN to connect different departments to a single network to safely send and receive data.
Best Site-to-site VPNs:
NordLayer
Extranet Site-to-site VPN:
Technically, extranet site-to-site VPN is a type of site-to-site VPN. While the site-to-site VPN enables secure communication within different departments of a company, the extranet site-to-site VPN helps companies connect safely to trusted business partners, suppliers, and more.
An extranet site-to-site VPN connects the intranet of multiple organizations to a single network. Each company involved maintains its intranet while the extranet ensures that no one gets access to each other’s resources and data.
Who Should Use It?
Extranet site-to-site VPN offers a safe communication channel for companies working on joint projects. Also, when sharing proprietary information, an extranet site-to-site can protect the company’s sensitive information.
Best Extranet Site-to-Site VPNs:
- Cisco Dynamic Multipoint VPN
- Zscaler Private Access
Key Takeaways:
- Personal VPNs are mostly used by individuals who want to access geo-restricted content or have a safe browsing experience.
- Remote employees or digital nomads use remote access VPN to connect and safely send or receive data to their organization or clients.
- Site-to-site VPNs enable safe communication between different branches of a company. It offers a single private network, known as the intranet, where different networks can send or receive data securely.
- Extranet site-to-site connects different internal networks and provides a safe passage for communication. Companies that work on joint ventures or share sensitive information should use extranet site-to-site VPN.