Security · Remote work · GDPR · 2025

Business VPN for companies: security, remote work & GDPR

Last updated: 7 December 2025 · Author: Denys Shchur

In today’s digital landscape, where cyber threats grow more sophisticated and remote work is commonplace, a Business VPN is indispensable for UK companies. It protects sensitive corporate data, enables secure remote access, and supports compliance with UK GDPR and ICO guidelines. This article offers a comprehensive overview for business owners and IT managers on how VPNs bolster security, facilitate flexible working, and ensure legal compliance within the UK context.

We will explore what a business VPN is, its key benefits, and how it supports secure remote work and GDPR compliance. For foundational knowledge on VPN technology, see our guide What is a VPN?.

What is a Business VPN and how does it work?

Key point: A business VPN creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between employees’ devices and the company network, protecting data from interception and unauthorised access.

Whether employees connect from the office, home, or while travelling, a business VPN encrypts their internet traffic and routes it through secure servers. This safeguards against cybercriminals, especially on public Wi-Fi networks. Unlike consumer VPNs, business VPNs offer features like centralised user management, dedicated IP addresses, and integration with corporate authentication systems.

Modern VPN solutions employ advanced protocols such as WireGuard or proprietary variants like NordLynx to deliver fast, secure connections. For more on VPN protocols, visit our article VPN Protocols.

Benefits of using a VPN for companies

Core advantages: enhanced data security, seamless remote work, protection against data leaks, and GDPR compliance support.

• Secure remote access. Employees can safely connect to internal systems from any location, reducing risks associated with unsecured public networks.
• Data confidentiality. Encryption protects sensitive business information and personal data, crucial for UK GDPR adherence.
• Centralised user and device management. IT administrators can control who accesses the network, revoke permissions instantly, and monitor VPN usage.
• Support for hybrid and flexible work models. VPNs enable employees to work securely from home, client sites, or while travelling.
• Reduced risk of cyberattacks. VPNs help mitigate threats such as Man-in-the-Middle attacks, session hijacking, and phishing.

Implementing a business VPN also simplifies meeting UK GDPR requirements for protecting personal data during transmission. For detailed remote work security tips, see our guide VPN and Remote Work.

Business VPN and GDPR compliance: what you need to know

Important: VPNs contribute to UK GDPR compliance by securing data in transit and restricting network access to authorised users only.

UK GDPR mandates that companies protect personal data against unauthorised access, loss, or damage. A VPN encrypts data traffic, making it unreadable to attackers, and masks IP addresses to enhance privacy. This is especially critical when employees handle customer or employee data remotely.

However, VPNs are just one part of a comprehensive GDPR strategy. Businesses should also implement strong password policies, two-factor authentication (2FA/MFA), and conduct regular security audits.

VPN and remote work: balancing security with convenience

Essential insight: VPNs are foundational for secure remote work, protecting company data while enabling flexible access.

Remote employees often rely on public or home networks that lack enterprise-grade security. VPNs create encrypted tunnels that shield data from interception, ensuring confidential communications and access to internal resources remain protected.

For IT teams, business VPNs offer tools to manage multiple devices, enforce security policies, and integrate with existing infrastructure. Setting up VPNs on routers can further secure entire office or home networks; learn more in our article VPN on Router Setup.

Key features to look for in a business VPN

Focus on: encryption protocols, user management, DNS leak protection, and kill switch functionality.

1. Strong encryption and modern protocols. Opt for VPNs supporting WireGuard or OpenVPN to ensure fast and secure connections.
2. Centralised user and access management. Essential for controlling permissions, onboarding new employees, and revoking access promptly.
3. Protection against DNS leaks and kill switch. Prevents accidental exposure of real IP addresses if the VPN connection drops. For more, see VPN and DNS Leak Tests.
4. Multi-device and platform support. Enables protection across laptops, smartphones, tablets, and other devices used by employees.
5. Dedicated IP addresses and servers. Useful for companies requiring stable IPs for firewall whitelisting or accessing sensitive systems. Learn more in Dedicated IP VPN.

Implementing a Business VPN: practical steps

Step-by-step: planning, deployment, user training, and ongoing management.

1. Assess your needs. Identify which employees and systems require VPN access, and the level of security needed.
2. Select a provider. Choose a VPN service with strong encryption, UK/EU servers, GDPR compliance, and business features.
3. Deploy and configure. Set up VPN clients on devices, configure access controls, and integrate with corporate authentication.
4. Train employees. Educate staff on VPN use, security best practices, and the importance of compliance.
5. Monitor and maintain. Regularly review VPN logs, update software, and audit security policies.