Hardware VPN: What is It For?
A hardware VPN is a physical device — often a router or a dedicated appliance — that runs the VPN connection itself, protecting every device on the network at once instead of app-by-app. Businesses use them to give offices and remote sites secure, always-on access to internal systems. At home, a VPN-capable router does the same job: it covers devices that can’t run VPN apps, like smart TVs and consoles. The trade-off is more setup and cost than a software VPN, in exchange for whole-network coverage. Planet VPN supports router setups, which is how you’d cover a Smart TV.
VPN for Businesses: Hardware vs. Software
When considering if the hardware or software option is better, the user may need to review the choices. Some items to consider with software include downloads, support for glitches, navigation through the application, if a guide is available, what steps to take and how the program interacts with the network. Other details include super fast or slow speeds, the best hardware VPN for the physical item and what VPN hardware device to purchase for the business.
Speed
The hardware VPN solution is often faster with more reliable speeds. However, with better computers and cell phones, the user no longer needs switches, less than gigabit connections and a certain model of the device. Higher speeds are available in each country with true access in 2019. There is little need to consider only purchasing hardware VPN for home.
Stability
It is less difficult to achieve stability with speeds and a constant connection even with a hardware VPN router that may limit speeds or cause instability. However, with a single touch, the user can correct issues. Choosing a different server location or by restarting the hardware, the user can restore stability. That’s why many users, who need stable Internet connection, prefer exactly hardware, not software VPN.
Remote Access
When considering the hardware VPN vs software VPN options, the individual can usually acquire remote access through the device or with the browser. Either through company intranet and internet away from the office or when accessing the VPN away from home, the user can keep a stable connection. Not all virtual private networks do provide this access, but Planet FreeVPN does. A dedicated IP service can help create a system that also gives the user this same functionality. The VPN hardware can retain the IP address of the user in a White list reporting to the company or to the home device. A college can accomplish this as well.
Scalability
For consideration with VPN hardware vs software, the business should understand if the application or hardware can upgrade based on the needs of the company. With the hardware, the VPN tunnels have limits. With fast-growing businesses, this is a restriction. Then, there is the need to invest in a new device. It is normally more cost-effective to purchase VPN software and only purchase a new account for additional employees that start working. The home user may not need to consider this feature.
Maintenance and Updates
Maintenance for the VPN hardware for home use may require updates, tweaks to settings and additional hardware to provide access to multiple users. Software options are often simple with installation complete in a mere few minutes. This option also comes with support where the hardware may require a call to a third party.
The device may also demand someone with technical expertise. There is no interface accessible without manual configuration. Remove access is not as easy. Software updates are often simple with a click or by accessing a link. Additional features are often available through browser extensions for the home or business user.
Price
The physical device can cost anywhere from $50 to $1000 or more depending on the brand and features. The software alternative is usually only a few dollars each month or for each user. With a larger corporation, the hardware is not a serious consideration unless the software is more scalable and is easier for everyone.