Setting Up a VPN for Your Business
Keep your team's connections private and your business data secure — whether they're in the office or working remotely.
What Is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates an encrypted tunnel between a device and your business network, keeping data private even on public internet connections.
Think of it this way
Imagine you're sending a letter through the mail. Normally, anyone handling the letter could read it. A VPN is like putting that letter in a locked, tamper-proof box that only you and the recipient have the key to. Even if someone intercepts the box, they can't see what's inside.
How a VPN Works
Your Device
Employee laptop or phone
Encrypted Tunnel
Data is scrambled in transit
Business Network
Office files, apps, servers
When Does Your Business Need a VPN?
Not every business needs a VPN. Here's how to decide if it's right for yours.
You Probably Need a VPN If...
- Employees work remotely or from home
- Staff travel and connect to hotel/airport Wi-Fi
- You have on-premises servers or network resources
- You handle sensitive client data (legal, medical, financial)
- Compliance requirements mandate encrypted connections
- You have multiple office locations that need to share resources
You Might Not Need One If...
- Everyone works in one office location only
- All your business apps are cloud-based (Microsoft 365, Google Workspace) with MFA enabled
- You have no on-premises servers to connect to remotely
- Your business doesn't handle highly regulated data
Types of Business VPNs
Remote Access VPN
Connects individual employees to the business network from a remote location. Each user runs a VPN client on their device.
Site-to-Site VPN
Connects two or more office networks together so resources can be shared as if they were on the same local network.
Comparing VPN Solutions
Click each solution to see details, pricing, and who it's best for.
| Feature | Tailscale | NordLayer | WireGuard | Cisco |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | Free / $5/user | $8/user/mo | Free | Enterprise |
| Setup Ease | Very Easy | Easy | Advanced | Complex |
| Best Team Size | 1-50 | 10-500 | 1-20 | 50+ |
| Managed Service | Yes | Yes | No (self-host) | Yes |
| Our Recommendation | Most SMBs | Growing teams | DIY techies | Enterprise |
Setting Up Your VPN — Step by Step
We recommend Tailscale for most small businesses. Here's how to get started in under 15 minutes.
Create Your Account
Sign up at tailscale.com using your business identity provider (Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, or GitHub). This creates your private network — called a "tailnet."
Install on Your Devices
Download and install the Tailscale app on each device that needs VPN access. Available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android.
Sign In and Connect
Each employee signs in with their work account. Once authenticated, their device is automatically added to your private network and can reach other devices on the tailnet.
Configure Access Controls (Optional)
By default, all devices on your tailnet can reach each other. Use ACLs (Access Control Lists) to restrict which employees can access which resources.
Test the Connection
From a remote device, try accessing an office resource (file share, printer, internal app). If it works — you're done! If not, check the Tailscale admin console for status and troubleshooting.
VPN + Remote Work Security Tips
A VPN is just one layer of protection. Combine it with these practices for maximum security.
Always Use MFA
Enable multi-factor authentication on the VPN itself and all cloud services. A VPN protects the connection, but MFA protects the account.
Company Devices Only
Whenever possible, restrict VPN access to company-managed devices. Personal devices may lack security updates and endpoint protection.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi Without VPN
Train employees to always activate the VPN before connecting to coffee shop, hotel, or airport Wi-Fi. These networks are prime targets for eavesdropping.
Revoke Access Promptly
When an employee leaves the company, remove their VPN access immediately. This is often overlooked but is a critical security step.
Keep VPN Software Updated
VPN software itself can have vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates and check the admin console regularly for outdated clients.
Use Split Tunneling Wisely
Split tunneling lets personal traffic bypass the VPN for faster browsing. Only enable it if your VPN solution supports it safely — otherwise, all traffic should go through the tunnel.
VPN Setup Checklist
Track your progress — click each item as you complete it.
Need Help Setting Up a VPN?
Simplissit can recommend, configure, and manage the right VPN solution for your business — so your team stays connected and secure.
Get Expert Help