VPNs are well known for the online security they provide and have proven their mettle over the years. However, hackers began targeting the vulnerabilities within a VPN environment. This phenomenon has led to a belief that VPNs are no longer the uncrowned champion of online safety. Furthermore, users have started to look for alternatives to this tried and tested relic of history. However, those in the know would like to gainsay and suggest ways to make VPN more secure.
Despite popular belief, many IT operatives and enthusiasts implore the users to remain vigilant when using a VPN. They claim it is far easier to make a VPN more secure than to search for an alternative. This article will highlight a few ways users can strengthen their VPN connections.
Why do you need to make a VPN more secure?
However, first, we would like to recommend our readers read up on VPNs, what they are and how they can help. Having that out of the way, let us come back to the topic of learning to make VPNs more secure. But before we talk about it, many people may be wondering why is there a need to do so? To answer simply: VPNs are not foolproof, and they present many vulnerabilities.
This applies to consumer VPNs for personal use or corporate ones for your business alike. It is imperative to know the weak points of the technology and how to improve on them. Some reasons for needing a much secure VPN are as follows:
- VPNs cannot distinguish between a user and a potential threat.
- They cannot prevent internal issues.
- VPNs add to the complexity of a network.
- A VPN is unable to monitor the user post facto.
- Some VPN protocols are privy to official institutes.
- Some VPN encryption profiles are no longer secure.
- The reliance on a simple authentication method leaves space for malicious maneuverability.
Can you bolster VPN security?
There are a lot of concerns, compiled over the years, that raise the issue of a VPN with enhanced security. While this led many to adopt emerging technologies like ZTNA, the conservatives would give the traditional approach another chance than risk it with newer techs. Thus, there are ways to make a VPN more secure, be it for your personal use or your professional one.
Tips to make a consumer VPN more secure
A consumer VPN is a remote access VPN that caters to an individual. Popular VPN providers like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, CyberGhost VPN are examples of consumer VPN. Although these VPNs are strong enough for personal use, human folly can render them moot. Furthermore, there is nothing wrong with ensuring a much more secure VPN for your usage. Thus, follow the tips we mention below to make your consumer VPN stand out:
Use the correct VPN protocols
The first and foremost advice would be to focus on your VPN protocols. VPN protocols excel at different things. However, some of them are old and outdated. It can result in a severe issue if you are not careful. For example, PPTP is the oldest VPN protocol that offers next to no security. However, the protocol is surprisingly fast. Therefore, you should use PPTP when you want to stream some region-bound content. But refrain from using it for a high-pressure job where data security is of utmost importance. Similarly, WireGuard, the latest iteration in advanced VPN protocols, is similar to OpenVPN and equally fast and secure.
Prevent leaks to make your VPN more secure
Some VPNs are infamous for leaking data. It can result in many uncertainties when it comes to your security. Thus, learn more about the various leaks in a VPN and how to prevent them.
- DNS leaks – When you connect to the internet, it shows your DNS server. Some VPNs are unable to hide it.
- IP leaks – An IP address is crucial to navigating the internet. The whole VPN concept relies on the workings of IP. If the VPN cannot spoof or leak your IP, it is time to change providers.
- IPv6 leaks – The latest iteration in the IP addresses, intended to fulfill the need of diminishing IPv4 addresses. Since it is new, many VPN protocols leak IPv6. Use a VPN that can prevent this leak.
- WebRTC leaks – WebRTC (Web Real-Time Communication) is a protocol that allows two devices to communicate with each other by broadcasting their IP. However, sometimes during this communication, the IP gets leaked. Use VPNs that can assure this won’t happen.
Utilize a network lock or the Auto-Connect feature
Network lock is an upgraded version of the kill switch. It locks you out of the network to prevent IP leaks. However, most VPNs don’t offer this feature. It is also advisable to use the auto-connect feature on a VPN. It works on the premise that a user can forget to connect to a VPN. Also, it works in tandem with the kill switch feature.
Employ a Kill Switch
A kill switch is a feature that can aid your online security. For some reason, if your VPN connection drops suddenly, a kill switch can ensure your safety by terminating internet access to your device. Kill switch is a device-level solution. If you want to protect your network, employ a network lock that works on the same principles as a kill switch but affects the whole network.
Focus on the authentication methods
Authentication is a necessity for any security module. Without proper vetting, the potential for any threat remains insurmountable. However, the VPN provides varying degrees of authentication. However, we recommend using a two-factor method for enhanced security.
Tips to make a Corporate VPN more secure
VPNs are necessary for businesses. People developed them to connect faraway corporations over a secure channel. Nowadays, there are different implementations of corporate VPNs that work tirelessly. Be it the remote access VPN like the IPsec VPN, the SSL VPN, or the site-to-site VPNs like the MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching), they each have benefits and also, sadly, drawbacks. However, by remaining vigilant, you can overcome such vulnerabilities easily. All you need to do is:
Grant VPN access to limited parties
At the very least, don’t allow everyone to access your VPN network. Barring trust issues, the approach itself is impractical enough to result in drastic consequences. Furthermore, be selective with the management of the network. Similarly, award access based on priority—do not make it a universal right.
Allow email access without VPN
Most of the time, employees connected to a VPN keep logging in and out of the network to check emails. It is a futile practice. We advise making the email a VPN free access. It will reduce the load as well as the exposure of your network.
Employ a stringent password regime
A strong password can make all the difference in the world. Encourage your management to employ and adopt a strict password policy to prevent hacking/phishing attempts. Similarly, never use the same password over a substantial period or for different services.
Focus on end-point devices
Users connect to the remote network via their devices. However, you cannot trust these devices at the end-point of a network. Yes, most corporates issue exclusive machines for remote working purposes. But the growth of the WFH (work from home) culture will make end-point devices an issue sooner rather than later. Furthermore, you cannot inspect each of these devices. If someone with a malware-infested device or a compromised device gains access to your network, it will become an issue quickly.
Use additional support software and enact a Firewall
Don’t simply use a VPN, but also employ a firewall—a physical one, on your network, if possible. On top of that, use antivirus and anti-malware programs. A firewall can take care of insurgents as well as malware. Furthermore, a physical onsite device can make your VPN experience much smoother.
Prohibit the use of other VPN apps on the corporate VPN network
Do not use another VPN when you are on the corporate network. Using a VPN on top of the native VPN may sound reliable, but it garners a much grander threat as it can overwhelm the connection into a deadlock preventing others from accessing it.