How Always On VPN Enhances Security and Connectivity

Always On VPN is a secure networking solution that guarantees a persistent and automatic VPN connection, providing ongoing online privacy and security, particularly for remote users and mobile devices, even during network transitions or breaks.

In 2022, the VPN market amounted to $44.6 billion globally. Recent statistics have shown that the VPN market is expected to grow significantly from 2023 to 2027. 

Ensuring a seamless and continuous online security experience, Always On VPN solutions are a necessary choice for mobile users and remote workers. With an always-on VPN, you don't need to reconnect to your VPN every time you want to use it. 

The Evolution of VPN Technology

Since its introduction in the 1990s, VPN technology has advanced drastically, moving from basic protocols like PPTP to more reliable ones like IPsec, L2TP, and OpenVPN. Individual privacy needs were catered to by the growth of commercial VPN services and the emergence of mobile VPNs. 

At the same time, advancements like WireGuard provided advantages in terms of speed and security. Because of its continual evolution, VPNs are guaranteed to be an essential tool for online privacy and security in a constantly evolving digital environment. 

What Defines "Always On" in VPN Context?

In the context of VPNs, "Always On" refers to a configuration or mode where the VPN connection stays active and connected constantly, without user involvement, whenever the device is connected to the internet. 

Always On VPN  is frequently used to improve security and privacy by ensuring that all internet traffic is routed through the VPN tunnel by default, safeguarding the user's data from potential dangers even when the user is not actively utilizing particular applications or services.

Core Components and Architecture of Always On VPN

An "Always On" VPN, often called a persistent or automated VPN, is intended to keep a secure VPN connection active at all times, even while a device is connected to the internet. Depending on the particular VPN solution or platform being used, its fundamental components and architecture may differ, but the following are typical elements and architectural considerations:

VPN Client Software/Application

The user's device (such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet) has installed the VPN client software or program. It controls how the VPN connection is established, monitored, and reconnected when necessary.

VPN Server(s)

VPN servers are the endpoints where VPN connections terminate. They may be hosted by the VPN service provider or by the internal network architecture of a business. For redundancy and load balancing, multiple servers may be utilized.

VPN Protocols

VPN protocols govern data encapsulation, encryption, and transmission between the client and server. IPsec, L2TP/IPsec, and WireGuard are common VPN protocols. The protocol to choose relies on compatibility and security needs.

Benefits of Employing an Always-On VPN Strategy

Employing an "Always On" VPN strategy has many important advantages, especially when it comes to improving security, privacy, and connection for people and organizations:

Constant Security Protection

The ongoing protection of data and online activities is certainly the most significant benefit. An "Always On" VPN guarantees that all internet traffic is encrypted and routed through a secure VPN tunnel, lowering the danger of data breaches, monitoring, and cyberattacks, even on untrusted networks. 

Secure Remote Access

An "Always On" VPN offers a secure and encrypted connection to the business network for remote workers and employees accessing corporate resources, protecting sensitive information and guaranteeing adherence to security regulations.

Setting Up Always On VPN: Technical Considerations

Several crucial technical considerations must be made while setting up an "Always On" VPN:

VPN Protocol Selection

Choose the VPN protocol with care based on your needs for security and the compatibility of your devices. For instance, SSL/TLS VPNs are frequently more accessible from a wider range of devices than IPsec VPNs, which offer robust protection but may need specific client software. 

Authentication and Encryption Standards

Implement robust authentication techniques, such as certificate-based authentication or multi-factor authentication (MFA), and make sure that data is encrypted using cutting-edge, secure algorithms to guard against monitoring and illegal access.

DNS Configuration and Leak Prevention

Configure DNS settings to avoid DNS leaks, which can reveal users' online activities. Ensure DNS requests are routed over the VPN tunnel to guarantee privacy and security. 

Potential Challenges and Their Solutions

Several difficulties might arise when setting up an "Always On" VPN, but these difficulties can be solved with careful preparation and effective solutions. Here are some possible challenges and their related solutions: 

Network Interruptions and Connectivity Issues

• Users may occasionally face network outages or changes in connectivity (such as switching between Wi-Fi and cellular data), which might cause VPN disconnections.
• The solution is to use VPN reconnection logic to automatically re-establish the connection whenever network access is restored. Use mobile VPN or seamless backup technologies to handle network transitions smoothly.

DNS Leaks

• DNS requests can pass through the VPN tunnel, possibly disclosing users' online activities to third parties.
• The solution is to set up the VPN client to use the VPN's DNS servers, ensuring that DNS requests are also encrypted and sent through the VPN tunnel. 

Compatibility and Platform Differences

• The difficulty is that different devices and operating systems might support VPN configurations and protocols in various ways.
• The solution is to pick a VPN protocol that is well-supported by all of the platforms in use at your company. Test and modify configurations for various devices.

Comparing Always On VPN with Traditional VPNs

There are some important differences when comparing Always On VPN to traditional VPNs. The key points are as follows:

Always-On VPN

• Offers seamless and transparent remote access;
• Uses cutting-edge authentication and management for greater overall security;
• Supports the IKEv2 protocol for improved performance;
• It can be handled by Mobile Device Management (MDM) tools like Microsoft Intune.

Traditional VPNs

• Connections are optional and user-initiated;
• Require additional software to function, which must be installed and maintained;
• Expensely to implement and maintain;
• Typically demand costly proprietary gear and specialized management skill sets.

The Future of VPNs: Where Does Always On Stand?

Always On VPNs are expected to continue to be vital to private and secure online connectivity in future VPNs. "Always On" VPNs are well-positioned to play a crucial role in providing uninterrupted security as privacy concerns and the demand for protection continue to grow, especially for remote workers, IoT devices, and mobile users. 

Always On VPNs are anticipated to develop by implementing quantum-safe encryption and adjusting to new technologies like 5G and edge computing. Ultimately, "Always On" VPNs will continue to be a pillar of online privacy and security in the developing digital ecosystem. 

Final Words

Always On VPN is a cutting-edge remote access solution that offers several benefits over traditional VPNs. Always On VPN provides connectivity to corporate resources. Overall, Always On VPN is a promising technology offering constant security protection and adaptable remote access solutions, with improved security and performance.