Working With a VPN: Installation & Tips for Remote Work

One of the most valuable options to keep remote work from compromising your security is a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN creates a secure VPN connection and improves connectivity by using the encryption of a tunnel for internet traffic – hiding sensitive information, like IP addresses.

Balancing convenience and security can be challenging, but correctly configuring and implementing a VPN solution can help. This article will discuss the deployment of Harmony SASE, Perimeter 81’s VPN solution, and best practices for getting the most out of it.

Quick Takeaways

VPN function: A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, creates an encrypted tunnel between a user and a server. This keeps all online activity private and protects data in transit from attack. Perimeter 81 offers a VPN solution, Harmony SASE, a simpler, more efficient version of a standard VPN.
VPN deployment: Harmony SASE is available for most operating systems, and users should implement it on mobile device and other devices used for work.
It’s not all on you: Remote workers should commit to using a VPN, avoid public Wi-Fi networks, and, above all else, follow company security protocols and guidelines.

Initial Agent Deployment

To start using the solution, the process is relatively straightforward.

Once you have created a network and connected your infrastructure (both on-premises and cloud, ensuring you have every asset accounted for), you can address employee identity verification.

SSO & IdP

SSO and IdP will be needed for the most secure employee identification and authentication going forward, so prioritize configuring them. Once that is done, you can bring on employees and begin customizing other security settings.

Access Control List

Create an access control list, which will be important down the line.

Your VPN provider and its built-in FWaaS will enforce your access rules and protocols and limit the types of data a given employee can access. Especially when your employees work remotely, access control is essential for reducing the risk that compromised credentials will lead to data theft or infrastructure damage.

When an attacker infiltrates

If an attacker does infiltrate your environment using employee credentials, you don’t want any more data available to him than necessary.

Set Up SWG & Customize Security Settings

Your next steps are to set up SWG, customize any security settings relevant to your business, and then begin monitoring from your cloud VPN service provider’s central platform.

While the monitoring of your firewall, endpoint security, and infrastructure will be automated, you should keep an eye out for alerts, track potential attacks and threats, and address any access anomalies. By taking these steps and working with a VPN, you will significantly reduce potential attack vectors, even with consistent remote access to your data.

Connecting Devices to Perimeter 81 VPN

Harmony SASE is fully functional on both phones and laptops, so you can protect your company data no matter what device an employee uses to access cloud resources.

Mobile Devices

For mobile devices, there is a Perimeter 81 VPN app that can be quickly downloaded. Employees should authenticate with corporate credentials and select the appropriate VPN server to get started.

Laptops / Desktop Devices

For laptops, employees download the VPN client software instead, and then they can authenticate and select the server.

Here’s How to Get Started

To get started, download the application (this will work for Android, Windows, iOS, and other operating systems). Here is a guide that will walk you through the agent setup for Harmony SASE. Most issues can be traced back to incorrectly following these steps, so ensure nothing is missed when you are working through the agent’s settings.

However, if everything is configured correctly, support is available and happy to help.

Tips for Remote Workers

Here are some tips for employees to help you get the most out of working with a VPN:

Ensuring a stable and reliable internet connection: If a connection is unstable, the VPN cannot remain connected, which could expose data. Additionally, the VPN places some load on the connection, so it may lead to issues with connection speed if the internet connection is poor.
Familiarizing themselves with the VPN’s client interface and features: Employees will have the best user experience if they know the platform and its capabilities. Consider providing some training, and be sure to communicate what they can do with the software.
Following company policies for data security and access. The most important thing an employee can do is follow security policies and best practices. Deviating from them is a very common way that attackers are able to infiltrate the environment. At that point, your best bet is a combination of quick response times and strict access control.
Prioritizing online privacy and security. Employees should avoid using public Wi-Fi and public networks whenever possible. They should not store passwords in the browser, and the passwords they use should be complex. Ensuring MFA is enabled at all times is essential.

Create a Bulletproof Security Strategy with Perimeter 81

With Perimeter 81’s VPN solution, you can insulate your data and infrastructure from attack.

Sophisticated security tools and customizable settings ensure that the VPN caters to your business, and even the wide attack surface created by remote work can be handled by working with a VPN and requiring employees to follow security policies.

Get started today with Perimeter 81.

FAQs

What does a VPN do?

A VPN establishes an encrypted, secure connection between you and the Internet service provider. It also hides your real IP address and your physical, server location.

How do I access geo-restricted content with a VPN?

A VPN reroutes your internet traffic through a server in another country, masking your true location and granting access to restricted content from streaming services. You just install a VPN service and connect to a server in the right region.

When should I use a VPN?

If possible, you should always use a VPN. However, prioritize using it to access sensitive information, work-related information, and when using potentially insecure networks.

Is it OK to leave a VPN on all the time?

Yes, you can keep your VPN enabled. No harm will befall you because you have it on- turning it off leaves you open to compromise.

Should I use a VPN on my phone?

You should use a VPN on your phone, especially if you’re accessing sensitive information. Many people access sensitive data while away from secure, private networks, which is a security risk.