Step 1: Set up the main VPN components
To get started, you need a VPN client, a VPN server, and a VPN router. The downloadable client connects to servers around the world so your employees can access your small business network wherever they are. The client can be used on devices such as smartphones and laptops, even if employees use public Wi-Fi networks.
To protect and encrypt all network traffic, you also need a VPN gratis router. Most routers already include VPN clients.
Step 2: Prepare the equipment
Sometimes VPN clients conflict with other clients or do not work properly. To anticipate this type of problem, we advise you to prepare your network system before configuring a VPN.
Start by uninstalling any VPN client software you don’t need. While in theory VPN clients work well together, using competing systems is still a potential source of problems.
This is also the time to review your network configuration. If you plan to install a VPN for employees who access online resources in multiple ways (Wi-Fi, 4G modems, and wired connections, for example), setting up the VPN client will take you more time. In this case, you can lighten the networks by disconnecting unused equipment.
Step 3: Download and Install VPN Clients
The easiest way to get your VPN Windows up and running is to install your VPN provider’s clients. However, they don’t always offer the necessary software for every platform you use, such as Windows, iOS, and Android. Even if so, first install the provided clients and check that your VPN account is working properly.
Check the “Downloads” page of your VPN provider’s website. You must also download the applications for the mobile devices used by your employees in order to protect the connections of as many devices as possible.
If the initial client installed works straight away, contact the VPN provider to ask about clients for other platforms. If you are unable to connect at all, report this information to the VPN provider’s support team.
Step 4: Find a setup tutorial
If for some reason your VPN provider doesn’t offer software for the equipment your business uses, check the manual setup guides available on their website. The documentation you need may be there. Otherwise, look for setup guides from other vendors that use the same equipment.
For example, if your business uses Chromebooks, search for tutorials for those specific devices.
Step 5: Connect to VPN
After installing the VPN client apps, enter the login credentials. Typically, the username and password are what you used to register with the VPN provider. However, some companies may require you to create separate login credentials for the VPN client.
Once you enter your login details, the VPN app will usually connect to the server closest to your location.
Step 6: Choose VPN Protocols
VPN protocols determine how your data is routed between your computer and the VPN server. Some protocols improve throughput, while others improve data privacy and security.