Finding the best VPN for working at home that provides security and speed is essential to effective working.
VPNs or virtual private networks have been around for a while yet they are becoming increasingly popular in the ever digitalised world we live in.
With more people working from home than ever before, installing a reliable VPN that works in the background is a must-have for a lot of people.
There are many reasons to get started with a VPN, from improving your security to just connecting to the office network.
We talk about the software, the benefits and why you should get started with a VPN when working from home.
In a hurry? Here’s our top picks…
ExpressVPN
You really can’t go wrong with the ExpressVPN for working at home. Used by millions of people around the world, this is one of the most popular VPN networks out there and for good reason.
ExpressVPN supports a wide range of platforms including Windows, Mac, Android, iOS and Linux amongst others.
There are also servers based in 160 different locations in 94 countries around the world. You won’t find many big-name VPN networks offering more than that.
ExpressVPN keeps things simple with one plan and three pricing options. You can choose between one-month, six-months and one-year. With the latter being the most cost-effective offering a nice discount on the monthly option.
Features we like
- 160 locations in 94 countries
- Fast and secure
- Simple pricing plan
- Brilliant support
NordVPN
Another popular choice for the best work at home VPN is NordVPN. Overall, a brilliant network that will more than satisfy your working at home needs.
Being one of the fastest VPNs out there, you’re unlikely to notice any decrease in internet speed meaning you can continue working as you usually would.
With servers in 81 locations spread across 59 countries, you’re bound to find a location that suits your needs.
NordVPN offers apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android and Linux amongst others. This should be adequate for all your working from home needs.
With this VPN, you’re able to connect up to six different devices which is standard in the industry.
Features we like
- 81 locations in 59 countries
- Support for a range of platforms
- Up to 6 different devices
ProtonVPN
One of the newer VPNs on the market, ProtonVPN is great for those of you working at home. With a proven track record of providing great security thanks to the popular ProtonMail email service, ProtonVPN is certainly a network to consider.
ProtonVPN outdoes the competition with up to 10 devices supported with one account. There are servers in 54 different countries with the majority of these spread around Europe.
Whilst the ProtonVPN support could be improved when compared to other providers like ExpressVPN, the overall platform is very impressive and will be perfect for your work at home requirements.
Features we like
- Supports up to 10 devices
- Servers in 54 countries
- Native apps for Windows, Android, Mac and iOS
- All apps are open source and audited
What is a VPN?
For those of you that are unsure, a VPN or Virtual Private Network allows you to secure the connection between you and the internet.
Why use a VPN?
You might understand that it’s important to install a VPN from what others have told you but what are the benefits. Let’s find out.
Improved security
Thanks to the global pandemic, more people than ever before are working from home. This means more people are connecting to office networks remotely meaning security is a major concern for a lot of workers.
Whilst working from private networks such as your home is generally pretty safe you can make things more secure by using one of the best VPNs for working at home.
If you’re using a public internet connection, a VPN will certainly increase your security and make you less susceptible to hackers and spammers trying to steal your information.
Remote access
Whilst working from home has many benefits, connecting to office networks is typically not very easy. However, with one of the best VPNs for working from home you’ll be able to access your office network with no problems at all.
You’ll be able to access printers and IT resources from any internet connection you have. Even when using a public connection.
Setting up a remote access VPN from home is incredibly easy. However, if you do get stuck there is plenty of support available from VPN providers.
Go anonymous
One of the major selling points of a VPN is that you become pretty much anonymous. So if you’re sick and tired of Google, Facebook and other large tech companies tracking everything you do, a work from home VPN might be a great solution.
Using one of the VPNs above will allow you to surf the internet without big brother watching or tracking all of your moves.
Remove restrictions
Another benefit of using a VPN when working at home is to bypass any geographical restrictions or blocks. This may or may not be beneficial in your line of work but it’s a popular reason people choose a VPN network in 2021.
For example, you may want to visit a website that is only visible to users in the US. With a VPN you can bypass any restrictions and surf the web as you wish.
VPN on your router
One option when setting up your VPN is to add it to your home router. This means any device connected to the router will be secured using the VPN.
This means you won’t have to connect each device to the VPN separately therefore only using up one device.
One downside is that the connection between your devices and the router will not be protected with this set up.
Frequently asked questions
Q. Are VPNs secure?
Yes. For the typical user, a VPN will provide all the security you’ll need. However, VPN software cannot provide 100% security or anonymity.
Q. Can I connect multiple devices to a VPN
Yes, you are able to connect multiple devices to a VPN. However, this depends on your VPN account and which provider you opt for.
Q. Are VPNs easy to set up?
Yes, the best working from home VPNs are incredibly easy to set up and don’t require any technical knowledge or know how.
Q. Will a VPN slow my connection?
Yes, you will see a slight decrease in internet speed with all VPNs as they add an extra layer of encryption and therefore another step in the process. However, high quality VPNs are great for reducing the impact of slow connections and you’re unlikely to tell the difference.
Final thoughts
In an ever digitalised world with remote working becoming more popular, a VPN is a must-have tool for those working at home.
Amongst other things, VPNs are a great way to increase your security and connect to office networks when working from home.
It’s incredibly easy to get started with any of the best VPNs for working at home from above. No matter what your budget and requirements are, there is a VPN for you.