NordLayer Business VPN

In the world of personal VPNs, Nord stands the highest. But what about for businesses? Enter NordLayer, a NordVPN’s business branch. This gives small to medium businesses a solid and easy-to-set-up SASE system.

Though SASE isn’t exactly a VPN but it offers similar perks. It merges zero-trust network access (ZTNA) and software-defined wide area networking (SD-WAN). These are the two important concepts which we will dive into later.

Simply put, NordLayer helps companies create safe connections between far off places, lets remote workers access company tools, and boosts device safety. It is said to work well in mixed settings and for those who use their own devices at work. However, let’s know how NordLayer VPN can be helpful for us.

NordLayer VPN Background

There are many companies; 8,000 out there who trust NordLayer with their data. It is usually easy for the businesses to use and they don’t need extra tools to use it. They are created to make business grow and work well in today’s digital world. They are useful for people who are working from different places. 

NordLayer is also part of a bigger company which is called Nord Security. They offers useful features some of those are:

• NordPass; To manage passwords.
• NordLocker; To keep files safe
• NordVPN; To keep internet use private

A fact that many people might not know. NordLayer was first called as NordVPN Teams when they started in 2019. They regained a new reputation in 2021. NordLayer has also worked with big online security systems like Azure AD, Okta and Google Workspace. It makes sure everyone using the network is who they say they are.

Also, recently made a new tool for internet browsers. It will help users safely connect to online services just using their browser.

What Are Pros And Cons Of Using NordLayer VPN?

Before getting a VPN it is better to look at its pros and cons. Which is why we are here with some of them:

What Are Features Of NordLayer VPN?

“What is NordLayer?” many might ask. As NordLayer VPN can serve as a personal VPN, it comes with a bunch of features that an average user might not be able to fully grasp. The reason is that it is designed especially for business purposes. It means that apart from the usual stuff like hiding your real IP address, it also includes a range of features that most of the companies would find quite valuable. Some of these features includes:

Gateways And Servers

The main benefits of using NordLayer as your business VPN is that it uses shared and virtual private getaways. It has servers in over 30 places around the world. They basically help businesses safely connect to their own networks and the cloud. 

Having your own server with a set IP address is like having a key to keep a company’s information safe. It will stop unwanted access to things like important documents, money transcripts, and other private data.

Safety Features

NordLayer offers many security tools like:

• Virtual Private Gateway
• Set IP
• Control over who gets network access
• Breaking the network into parts
• Blocking certain websites
• Checking data packets deeply
• Strong encryption
• Anticipated Cloud Firewall

Soon NordLayer will have a Cloud Firewall and a flexible online safety layer. It is like a cloud based security guard. Which is easier to use and can change size as needed. It is better than the old heavy duty firewalls.

Splitting the network into parts is a smart feature that big companies with lots of workers will find handy. It means you can make different sections in the network to make it safer and work faster.

For instance you can stop some departments from seeing the company’s money reports. Simply put; you decide what your workers can and can not see in the company’s system.

Logging In & Managing Users

What is NordLayer? NordLayer has top-notch tools for this: MFA (where you need two steps to log in), using your fingerprint or face to sign in, logging in just once to use many apps, and easy user setup.

Worried about unwanted people getting into the VPN and maybe seeing your company’s stuff? Then you would want your team to use a two-step sign-in process. Good news is that NordLayer gives you this, and you can pick if the login code comes through an email or a text message.

With NordLayer, there is also a Single sign-on (or SSO for short). This means a person only needs one username and password to get into many apps, making it super easy for them.

Product Application

NordLayer provides an easy to use Control Panel, one bill for everything, the option to switch licenses, and the ability to work with different network companies, making managing stuff a breeze.

The NordLayer Control Panel is super user-friendly (it is a website and not an app). It is designed to make this VPN service one of the easiest for businesses to get started with.

Here is what you can do with it:

• Bring in new users
• Add users to current groups
• Form new groups and include the gateways they can use
• Set up fresh gateways and servers
• Give someone the role of Team leader
• Link to other security and access systems
• See all the devices on the network
• Keep an eye on who’s using what (like which users or gateways are active)
• Turn on the two-step sign-in and decide how users log in

The Control Panel is simple to use. It is split into four main parts:

Organization

Here you can handle groups and their members. Like adding new users or gateways to certain groups. You can also check what each member is up to (like if they are active, paused, just invited, or not using it).

Network

This is where you will see and manage details about your gateways and servers.

Settings

This spot lets you turn on the Smart Remote Access. It means you can access company stuff even if you are offline. If you are confused then there is someone to guide you through.

Downloads

Find all NordLayer software links here. Plus, if you need to then you can send setup steps to your team members.

Connecting Networks

Features like Site-to-site and Smart Remote Access give you more ways to blend different working styles.

Site-to-Site

Site-to-site is great for businesses with many offices spread out in different places that need to get on the company network often. Think of them as safe pathways like private VPN tunnels that link two or more networks. This makes sure private information can move securely without outsiders peeking in.

Smart Remote Access

Smart Remote Access is like creating an online version of a Local Area Network (LAN). It lets you reach devices inside the company and ensures all endpoints are safe. You can share files easily without the usual hitches of a regular LAN; between company gadgets and main computers.

What is NordLayer? NordLayer also has a new feature: a Browser Extension. The Secure Web Gateway browser add-on lets you reach resources using just your web browser. This safe link is made by adding a little browser tool or tweaking the browser’s own settings. The cool part? Everything stays within the browser’s space – the rest of your online activities use your device’s usual internet setup.

Network Monitoring 

NordLayer helps you see and manage what users do and the health of their devices, making network oversight straightforward. You might know the ThreatBlock feature as it is like NordVPN’s Threat Protection. It stops users from visiting harmful websites that could show unsafe ads or even swipe vital company details. What is NordLayer? In our tests, this feature worked like a charm. It kept ads at bay and even halted access to some test websites packed with malware.

You can better watch over the network with Activity Monitoring reports. These show user connections to and from gateways, listing out member names, their gadgets, and where they are connecting from. You get a log of when and how members used the network.

NordLayer also has Device Posture Monitoring. It is a safety tool that lets company leaders inspect team devices based on set security standards. If a device doesn’t meet the mark, they get alerted.

What Are The Benefits Of Using NordLayer VPN For Business?

VPNs initially were crafted for secure branch to branch chats which have transformed since their inception in the ’90s. Today they stand as pillars of defense in the digital world for businesses; big or small. Lets get deep down into the perks a NordLayer VPN bestows upon enterprises reveals:

Budget-Friendly Security

VPNs are a cost-effective way to stay safe online. When you compare them to the expense and upkeep of hardware firewalls or the need to constantly update protection software, VPNs stand out as a simple and affordable choice. They come under one license; making things easier to manage.

After reading a NordLayer review, you’ll find that while VPNs might not offer features like live malware checks, having encrypted data and hiding your real IP address gives your network an added layer of protection.Which is why NordLayer VPN is a good choice to go. Because devices from your company can appear to be anywhere in the world, confusing potential hackers and reducing the chances of break-ins.

Smooth Data Sharing

Just like regular users, businesses can face slow data speeds. Some ISPs might reduce your speed or give you a data cap. With a VPN, these issues often go away. Your ISP can’t see how much data your team uses. So everyone can share and transfer large files without any hiccups. This is especially useful for industries that handle big files like graphic design or software creation.

Safe Remote Work Connections

With the Covid pandemic working from home became a big thing. But working outside the office can have some risks. When people work from their homes or use public wifi spots then there is a bigger chance for hackers to try and get in.

NordLayer VPNs help fix this issue. They make a safe link between the company’s main computers and the ones workers use at home or elsewhere. This means even if employees are using public WiFi at a coffee shop or their home network then outsiders can’t see them or what they are doing.

This setup lets workers do their job anywhere. They can send or get important files while waiting at an airport or even while on a bus. And when they travel; they don’t have to worry about online safety.

Keeping Company Information Private

VPNs are a must have for any business that wants to keep its information safe. Without them your sensitive data can easily get into the wrong hands. Internet companies can see and keep track of what is done online. Some apps might take user info for ads or even illegal stuff. Even some online services and search sites keep records of what users do.

For regular internet users this might not seem like a big deal. But for businesses it is different. They often share secret plans, projects, or client details. This information is precious and can be a target for bad people or rival companies. NordLayer VPNs help protect it by hiding where online actions come from. Which makes it really hard for anyone to spy.

Adaptable Protection for Every Device and Scene

One of the big pluses of VPNs is how adaptable they are. Companies can easily add VPN protection to any new gadget in no time. When a new computer is set up or when someone new joins the team then the NordLayer VPN is ready to guard the company’s online space. The safety net of the VPN changes and grows as the company does.

It is super easy to get NordLayer VPNs on all kinds of devices. Whether it is a laptop, tablet, or phone, workers can have the same level of safety. Even if a team is out on the field – they can connect all their gadgets under one VPN. And for those in the office? VPNs can be set up on the main internet router to keep everything secure. In short VPNs can handle any situation.

Simple Help and Upkeep

When companies use physical security tech then there is a lot of watching and updating involved. This means the security crew is always busy leaving less time for other tasks. With NordLayer VPNs a lot of the heavy lifting is done by outside companies. These VPN services handle the tech side of things which is great for smaller businesses that want to save time. It’s not just time saving but can also save money when compared to doing everything in house.

VPNs Get Along with Older Tech

For businesses that aren’t ready to jump into the latest tech trends VPNs are a lifeline. They can give older systems a safety boost without needing big changes. This means companies don’t have to mess with their existing tools or software. If employees can get to their work apps online, VPNs can keep them safe. This not only keeps older software protected but also saves money by delaying any tech upgrades.

What Are Plans And Pricing Of NordLayer VPN?

NordLayer provides different payment plans. Here are their pricing plans:

Is NordLayer Safe to Use?

Yes, NordLayer is super safe. In my NordLayer review research, I found out that it uses a top-level security method called AES-256, which is the same one trusted by big banks and governments.

When you connect, NordLayer gives you some great options. You can use NordLynx, which is like an improved version of another safety method. It is fast and even more secure.

You also have choices like OpenVPN TCP and OpenVPN UDP, which are very popular and trusted. And if you are using a phone or tablet, then there is IKEv2. It is really steady and works great on mobile devices.

Conclusion

Using a VPN offers lots of good perks. As we have noted in our NordLayer review, there are some top benefits such as better privacy, easy access to content from other countries, keeping your data safe, and avoiding slow-downs from internet providers. Businesses can also set up safe links between employees working from different places and their main office.

Plus, as pointed out in our NordLayer review, VPNs like NordLayer are affordable and easy to use. While they are not perfect, as highlighted in another NordLayer review, when you add them to a full security plan, they become a really helpful tool.