Best VPN for Remote Work & Home Office in 2025

Why Remote Workers Need a VPN in 2025

With over 35% of the global workforce now working remotely (up from 20% in 2020), VPNs have become essential tools for maintaining security and productivity. Whether you're accessing company files, joining video conferences, or handling sensitive data from a coffee shop, a VPN protects your digital workspace.

The shift to hybrid and remote work has created new cybersecurity challenges. According to recent reports, 68% of remote workers use personal devices for work, creating potential security vulnerabilities.

What Makes a VPN Good for Remote Work?

Essential Features

• Business-Grade Encryption: AES-256 encryption to protect company data
• Split Tunneling: Access local and corporate networks simultaneously
• Static IP Options: Consistent IP for accessing corporate systems
• Kill Switch: Automatic protection if VPN disconnects
• Fast Speeds: 100+ Mbps for video calls and file transfers
• Multiple Device Support: Cover work laptop, phone, and tablet
• 24/7 Support: Quick resolution for connectivity issues

Best VPNs for Remote Work in 2025

1. NordVPN - Best Overall for Remote Teams

NordVPN consistently ranks as the top choice for remote workers in 2025.

Key Features:

• Meshnet feature for secure file sharing with colleagues
• NordLynx protocol offers speeds up to 6,700+ Mbps
• Dedicated IP addresses available ($70/year extra)
• Split tunneling on all platforms
• 10 simultaneous connections
• Threat Protection blocks malware and phishing

Price: $3.49/month (2-year plan)

Best For: Teams needing file sharing and consistent performance

2. ExpressVPN - Fastest for Video Conferencing

ExpressVPN's Lightway protocol delivers exceptional speeds for Zoom, Teams, and Google Meet.

Key Features:

• Average speeds: 475 Mbps (fastest in our 2025 testing)
• Works in 94+ countries (best for international teams)
• 8 simultaneous connections
• Router app for whole-home office protection
• MediaStreamer for Smart TVs

Price: $6.67/month (15-month plan)

Best For: International teams and video-heavy workloads

3. Surfshark - Best Budget Option

Unlimited devices and strong security make Surfshark perfect for budget-conscious remote workers.

Key Features:

• Unlimited simultaneous connections
• Static IP available (free with plan)
• CleanWeb blocks ads and malware
• Bypasser (split tunneling)
• 3,200+ servers in 100 countries

Price: $2.49/month (2-year plan)

Best For: Solopreneurs and small teams on a budget

Remote Work VPN Setup Guide

Step 1: Choose Your VPN

Select a VPN based on your specific needs:

• Corporate Access: Get a dedicated/static IP
• International Team: Choose wide server coverage
• Multiple Devices: Ensure enough simultaneous connections
• High Security: Look for audited no-logs policies

Step 2: Install on All Devices

1. Download VPN app on work laptop/desktop
2. Install mobile app for smartphone
3. Set up on tablet if used for work
4. Consider router installation for always-on protection

Step 3: Configure Split Tunneling

Split tunneling lets you route some traffic through the VPN while keeping other traffic on your regular connection.

Route Through VPN:

• Email clients (Outlook, Gmail)
• Company intranet/corporate systems
• File storage (Dropbox, OneDrive)
• Messaging (Slack, Teams)

Keep on Regular Connection:

• Streaming services (Netflix, YouTube)
• Local banking apps
• Smart home devices

Step 4: Enable Kill Switch

Always enable the kill switch to prevent data leaks if your VPN disconnects during a work session. This is critical when handling sensitive company information.

Common Remote Work VPN Issues & Solutions

Issue: Slow Video Calls

Solution:

• Switch to WireGuard/NordLynx protocol
• Connect to nearest VPN server
• Use split tunneling to route video calls through regular connection
• Upgrade to higher-tier VPN plan for dedicated bandwidth

Issue: Can't Access Corporate Network

Solution:

• Get a dedicated/static IP from your VPN provider
• Ask IT to whitelist your VPN IP range
• Use company's own VPN + personal VPN (double VPN)
• Switch VPN protocols (try OpenVPN if IKEv2 fails)

Issue: VPN Blocks Company Apps

Solution:

• Add company apps to split tunneling exceptions
• Try different VPN server locations
• Disable IPv6 in VPN settings
• Contact VPN support for app-specific configuration

VPN Security Best Practices for Remote Workers

1. Use Two-Factor Authentication

Enable 2FA on your VPN account to prevent unauthorized access. Most premium VPNs now support authenticator apps.

2. Keep VPN Software Updated

Enable automatic updates to ensure you have the latest security patches. In 2025, several major vulnerabilities were patched quickly, but only for users running current versions.

3. Never Disable the VPN for Work Tasks

Always keep your VPN connected when:

• Accessing company email or files
• Joining work-related video calls
• Using public WiFi at cafes, airports, coworking spaces
• Handling customer data or sensitive information

4. Use Strong Passwords

Combine your VPN with a password manager like NordPass to generate and store unique passwords for all work accounts.

5. Educate Your Team

If you manage a remote team, create a VPN usage policy covering:

• When VPN must be active
• Approved VPN providers
• How to report connectivity issues
• What to do if VPN is compromised

VPN Alternatives for Remote Work

ZTNA (Zero Trust Network Access)

For large organizations, ZTNA solutions like Cloudflare Access or Perimeter 81 offer more granular control than traditional VPNs. However, they're typically more expensive and complex to set up.

Corporate VPN

Your company might provide its own VPN (often Cisco or Palo Alto). In this case, use both:

• Company VPN: For accessing corporate resources
• Personal VPN: For general internet browsing and protection

VPN Routers

Installing a VPN directly on your home router protects all devices automatically, including IoT devices, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.

Best VPN Routers 2025:

• Asus RT-AX88U (pre-configured NordVPN support)
• Netgear Nighthawk R7000 (DD-WRT compatible)
• GL.iNet Flint 2 (OpenWRT, portable)

Cost-Benefit Analysis

VPN Investment vs. Risk

Average cost of a data breach in 2025: $4.45 million (IBM Security Report)

Average VPN cost per employee per year: $42-$80

Even a small team of 10 people investing $800/year in VPNs is protecting against potential losses of hundreds of thousands in:

• Data breach remediation
• Legal fees and regulatory fines
• Lost productivity during incidents
• Reputational damage

Conclusion: Secure Your Remote Workspace

In 2025, a VPN isn't optional for remote workers—it's a fundamental security tool. Whether you're a solopreneur, part of a distributed team, or managing remote employees, the right VPN protects your data, maintains productivity, and gives you peace of mind.

Quick Recommendations:

• Best Overall: NordVPN ($3.49/mo) - Meshnet, 10 devices, dedicated IPs
• Fastest: ExpressVPN ($6.67/mo) - Best for video calls
• Best Value: Surfshark ($2.49/mo) - Unlimited devices

All three offer 30-day money-back guarantees, so you can test them risk-free with your remote work setup.

Compare all VPN features and prices to find your perfect match.