VPNs are now as common as coffee in the modern workplace. Whether it’s a remote employee, a support agent accessing customer data from home, or a manager checking internal tools during travel, VPNs are everywhere.
In fact, according to a 2024 report, over 55% of global VPN revenue came from business usage, a clear sign that organizations are relying heavily on VPNs to protect employee access and data.[1]
But here’s the uncomfortable truth: Just because you are using a VPN doesn’t mean you’re actually secure.
The question is “Is VPN safe for your business?”
Let’s break it down.
Myth-busting: What VPNs can and can’t do
A lot of people believe that once they switch on a VPN, they become invisible online. That’s not how it works.
Myth #1: A VPN makes you completely anonymous
Reality: A VPN hides your IP address, not your identity.
For example, imagine you’re browsing on a VPN and you log into your Facebook account. Facebook still knows it’s you. Why? Because you have given them your login. On top of that, websites can track you with cookies, saved logins, or unique browser fingerprints.
So yes, your IP is hidden, but your identity is still visible in many ways.
Myth #2: A VPN protects you from viruses or malware
Reality: VPNs encrypt your traffic but don’t scan it.
Let’s say an employee is connected to a VPN and downloads a file from a sketchy website. If that file contains a virus, the VPN won’t block it. VPNs don’t replace antivirus or endpoint security. They’re a layer of protection, not a full shield.
What makes a VPN safe?
Despite their limitations, VPNs still play an important role in business security when used correctly.
1. Secure access on public wi-fi
Imagine a salesperson working from a hotel lobby. Without a VPN, their internet traffic is open to anyone on that network. But with a VPN, their emails, files, and logins are encrypted even if someone is trying to snoop.
2. Masking IPs to avoid targeted attacks
If a company’s real server IPs are exposed, attackers can scan and try to exploit them. VPNs hide these IPs, making it harder for attackers to find an open door.
3. Safe remote access
VPNs create a private tunnel between an employee’s device and your company’s servers. This means no one outside that tunnel can see or tamper with the traffic.
So yes, VPNs are safe but only if they are used correctly and backed by stronger layers of protection.
Are VPNs enough?
Short answer: No.
Here’s why businesses can’t rely on VPNs alone in 2025:
- VPNs don’t check device health
Say a remote employee’s laptop has outdated software or missing antivirus. A VPN will still connect them to your internal network. That is like inviting someone into your house without checking if they are carrying a live wire.
- VPNs don’t stop insider threats
If an employee misuses their access or shares credentials, VPNs don’t raise red flags. There is no smart layer asking: “Should this person be accessing this system right now?” - VPNs don’t give real-time visibility
You can’t see if a device is jailbroken, if apps are being misused, or if sensitive files are being copied.
A better approach: VPN + Endpoint security + Zero trust access
Think of it like a secure building:
- The VPN is the locked gate
- Endpoint security is the guard checking the car’s condition
- Zero Trust Access is the ID check at the door
When all three work together, only safe users with safe devices get access and only to the parts they are allowed to use.
That is the core of a Zero Trust model: Never trust. Always verify.
How to choose the best safe VPN for your business?
Now that we know what a VPN can and can’t do, here’s how to choose one that actually keeps your business safe.
- End-to-end encryption: Make sure the VPN encrypts all traffic using strong protocols like AES-256. This ensures that no one can read the data even if intercepted.
- Zero-log policies: Choose a provider that doesn’t store your data or browsing history. If they log it, it can be leaked or hacked.
- Multi-device support: Your VPN should work seamlessly across phones, laptops, tablets, or any device your team uses.
Identity-based access: Select a VPN with Zero Trust Access or Identity based access. This allows you to define who gets access, when, and from where. - Compliance readiness: Get a VPN that has compliance tools. Whether it’s GDPR, HIPAA, CIS or ISO, your VPN must help you stay compliant with data regulations.
- Kill switch: If the VPN drops unexpectedly, the kill switch disconnects the device from the internet, so nothing leaks outside the secure tunnel.
- DNS/IP leak protection: Choose a VPN with leak protection because, even with encryption, sometimes your device may reveal its real DNS or IP info. Leak protection ensures that never happens.
- Secure protocols: Go for VPNs that use WireGuard, OpenVPN, or IKEv2 secure VPN protocols and not outdated ones like PPTP, which are full of holes.
- Server locations: Choose a VPN with more server locations. More server locations mean lower latency and higher flexibility. Especially useful for global teams.
Final verdict – Should you use a VPN?
Let’s wrap it up with a simple answers:
Is VPN safe? Yes, if it is encrypted, business-grade, and backed by the right policies. But is using VPN safe for your business? Only when it’s part of a bigger security strategy that includes endpoint protection, identity-based access, and real-time visibility.
The best safe VPN for businesses today is one that goes beyond just encryption and gives you full control, context, and compliance. Scalefusion Veltar delivers a secure, fast, and scalable business VPN designed for real-world threats and not just streaming restrictions. With built-in policy control, compliance automation, and endpoint protection, it is the VPN endpoint security solution that you won’t need to second guess.
Ready to get started? Talk to our team and book a quick demo today!
References:
1. Expert Insights
FAQs
1. Can a VPN prevent cyberattacks on a business network?
A VPN can protect against certain types of attacks like man-in-the-middle interception, but it can’t prevent malware infections, phishing, or insider threats. For full protection, businesses should layer VPN use with firewalls, endpoint security, and identity-based controls.
2. Is it safe to use a free VPN for work?
No, it is not safe to use a free VPN for business purposes. Free VPNs often track user activity, serve ads, or lack proper encryption, putting sensitive data at risk. Always choose a trusted, paid business VPN solution.
3. Does a VPN slow down internet speed for business users?
Yes, using a VPN may reduce internet speed slightly due to encryption overhead and server routing. However, premium business VPNs are optimized for performance and often minimize lag with high-speed servers and better bandwidth handling.
4. How safe is VPN to use on mobile devices for business tasks?
It is safe to use a VPN on mobile devices, if it is a trusted business VPN with strong encryption and device management capabilities. Without these, mobile VPN usage can leave sensitive data exposed.
5. How do businesses monitor VPN usage for security compliance?
Businesses can monitor VPN activity using admin dashboards, audit logs, and access analytics provided by enterprise-grade VPN solutions. This helps IT teams track usage, detect anomalies, and ensure compliance with security policies.
