In the modern world online security is becoming more and more important. The internet is used for all sorts of reasons, potentially putting users at risk. This is where a VPN (virtual private network) comes in. A VPN can protect against security risks and prevent a computer or computer network from being compromised. Examples of where a VPN can be useful are where several people are sharing resources or where data security could be an issue for whatever reason. It allows for secure communications between different locations. Below are some examples of where a VPN can be useful. For a Business A VPN enhances business security and can make a business much more flexible. It means employees are able to work from many locations. They can work from different offices, from home, or anywhere else using a laptop. They can do this while still working on a secure network. They are able to gain access to the company’s network without others being able to intercept it and can access the network wirelessly. For some businesses is can be very beneficial to have people working in several locations. Being able to do this securely can make employees much more productive. Government Organisations Government organisations store all kinds of data on many different things. This means they store billions of pieces of information, much of which needs to be kept securely. It is also often sent between different networks. It is vital that steps are taken to make sure security is not compromised. Medical Records These days all of our medical records are stored digitally. It is important, therefore, that people’s privacy is maintained. Medical records can be sent between doctor’s surgeries if patients are changing doctor and can be sent between a surgery and a hospital prior to a hospital visit. With information being exchanged in this way it makes security particularly important. Wireless Hotspots Many people use wireless hotspots to gain internet access using laptops, smart phones, and other internet enabled devices. These can be found in cafes and airports amongst other places. Something a lot of people don’t realise, though, it that they are not as secure as using the internet at home, for example, as they are relatively easy to intercept. Having a VPN installed onto the device you are using can prevent your private information from being hacked into. Personal Information People are using the internet more and more in everyday life and have all sorts of information on their computer. Many also shop online, meaning they input credit card details. It is therefore very important that people’s home computers are kept secure. A virtual private network will provide a crucial extra layer of security. Whether you are a business, another type of organisation or an individual user, if you deal with sensitive information or information that must be kept secure, a VPN can help. Using a VPN makes any computer or computer system more secure by encrypting data so it cannot be interpreted and understood by those who should not have access. Andrew Marshall (c)
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