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What are the Disadvantages of a VPN?

Nicole Madison
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Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 77,493
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When virtual private networks (VPNs) are discussed, much time is spent extolling their advantages. As such, many individuals new to them may feel uninformed about the disadvantages inherent to the technology. There are some pitfalls common to VPNs, but many people find the significant benefits of these networks worth the effort of dealing with their potential difficulties.

One disadvantage of a VPN is the fact that its deployment requires a high-level of knowledge and understanding of such factors as public network security. VPN security requires password and data encryption. Network addresses may also be encrypted for added security. To avoid security and deployment problems, planning is necessary and proper precautions should be taken.

Another significant disadvantage is that its availability and performance are difficult to control. Typically, VPN speeds are much slower than those experienced with a traditional connection. At times, some networks appear to be a bit dicey in terms of connectivity as well. For a variety of reasons, users may have a hard time staying on the VPN from time to time. While this may be annoying, the security that it offers often outweighs the grief caused by occasional connection problems.

While it is true that VPN works with equipment from many different manufacturers, technologies from different creators may work poorly together. With time, this may improve. For now, however, this can cause frustration when implementing a VPN.

One of the VPN's weakest links may, in some cases, be its users. When a remote telecommuter or an employee connects to his or her corporate office using a VPN from a laptop or home computer, security threats may result. This is because employees or telecommuters may use their personal computers for a variety of other applications in addition to connecting to the office. As such, the corporate network may be vulnerable to attack because of security weaknesses on the employee's personal computer. For this reason, some experts recommend supplying telecommuters and employees with home computers that are company-owned and used solely for approved company purposes.

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Nicole Madison
By Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison's love for learning inspires her work as a EasyTechJunkie writer, where she focuses on topics like homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. Her passion for knowledge is evident in the well-researched and informative articles she authors. As a mother of four, Nicole balances work with quality family time activities such as reading, camping, and beach trips.
Discussion Comments
By anon27119 — On Feb 24, 2009

nice article, i like using vpn to protect my data, but this article makes me to change my mind :)

By egyguy — On Jan 19, 2009

can VPN be used in a 120-sites Scada system ??? what will be the disadvantages ??? is that better or are wimax or 3g technologies ???

By anon23509 — On Dec 27, 2008

I do believe that if you employ low price equipment for VPN definitely you will not staying on the VPN from time to time.

VPN is not slow as said above. technology now is big. We have high speed internet connection, high speed equipments. What is required is proper planing of your VPN before rushing on it.

For security issue there is Quarantine Services with Microsoft Virtual Private Network which is services to be implemented only.

so I think with the advanced technology there will be a lot of benefit in implementing VPN

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison's love for learning inspires her work as a EasyTechJunkie writer, where she focuses on topics like...
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