Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic forced many employees to work from home. Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) allows remote workers to securely connect to a business network and access files, applications, and resources as if they were in the office. However, using RDP alone comes with security risks. Connecting through an unencrypted connection leaves your data vulnerable to hackers.
That‘s why a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is essential for any remote worker accessing a company‘s network and computers. A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the remote server, hiding your IP address and online activities from prying eyes. With so many VPN services available, choosing the right one can be tricky. In this guide, we‘ll cover the top 5 best VPNs for remote desktop in 2024, both free and paid options.
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Why Use a VPN with RDP?
There are a few key reasons why a VPN is critical when using RDP:
- Encryption – RDP on its own does not encrypt your connection. A VPN provides a layer of encryption to protect your data in transit. Without it, hackers nearby could intercept sensitive info.
- Hide IP address – Your real IP reveals your location and identity. A VPN masks it to keep you anonymous online.
- Bypass geographic restrictions – VPNs allow you to access content blocked in your region by spoofing your location.
- Public WiFi protection – Connecting from public networks is risky. A VPN keeps your data safe from snoopers on unsecured networks.
- Extra login security – Some VPN services offer advanced features like two-factor authentication for an added login security layer.
5 Best VPNs for Remote Desktop Access
Based on security, speed, reliability, and features, here are our top recommendations:
1. NordVPN – Best VPN for Remote Desktop Overall
NordVPN is our top choice for accessing a remote desktop thanks to its excellent security, fast speeds, and reliability. With industry-leading encryption, a strict no-logs policy, DNS leak protection, and a kill switch, NordVPN offers rock-solid security. It uses the next-gen NordLynx protocol based on WireGuard for fast speeds.
With over 5,400 servers worldwide, congestion is rare and connections are consistently fast. The huge server network provides top-notch unblocking abilities too. NordVPN allows 6 simultaneous connections so you can secure all your devices. It offers dedicated IP addresses for an extra cost – great for remote access to restrict logins to authorized IPs only. Apps are available for all major platforms.
2. ExpressVPN – Fastest VPN for Remote Desktop
ExpressVPN is one of the fastest VPN services, making it a superb choice for remote desktop usage. It offers excellent speeds thanks to its massive server fleet of over 3,000 servers in 94 countries. The speeds remain consistent too, even over long distances.
ExpressVPN uses trusted protocols like OpenVPN and Lightway, along with strong 256-bit AES encryption. Leak protection, a kill switch, and a strict no-logging policy provide robust security and privacy. For enhanced security, ExpressVPN also offers a password manager app, encrypted DNS, and a split tunneling feature. With support for 5 simultaneous connections, you can secure all your devices.
3. CyberGhost – User-Friendly VPN for Remote Access
CyberGhost excels in user-friendliness, making it easy to set up even if you‘re not tech-savvy. Its intuitive apps and user interface simplify the process of connecting to a remote desktop securely. CyberGhost automatically connects you to the optimal server for your location.
With military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and robust leak protection, CyberGhost provides excellent security. It has over 6,800 servers in 91 countries, delivering reliable speeds and unblocking abilities. You can connect 7 devices simultaneously. Dedicated IP addresses are also offered. Helpful features like automated HTTPS redirection, WiFi protection, and malicious website blocking further boost your remote desktop security.
4. Surfshark – Most Affordable VPN for Remote Access
If budget is a concern, Surfshark delivers remarkable value at one of the lowest prices in the industry. Despite the low cost, it doesn‘t compromise on essential security. Surfshark uses industr-standard AES-256 encryption and also offers private DNS and leak protection. An ad and malware blocker called CleanWeb provides additional protection.
Surfshark has over 3,200 servers in 100+ countries, providing solid speeds for a smooth remote desktop experience. Its unlimited device support is perfect for teams. Advanced features like Whitelister, Multihop connections, and Camouflage mode elevate its security. Surfshark is also very beginner-friendly.
5. ProtonVPN – Most Secure Free VPN for RDP
If you want a free option, ProtonVPN is the best VPN for remote desktop access with no payment required. Despite being free, it uses industry-standard AES-256 bit encryption. Additional security comes from its secure core protocol, DNS/IP leak protection, and kill switch. ProtonVPN has a strict no logging policy too.
The free plan has unlimited data usage. Speeds are quite good with access to over 1,000 servers in 55 countries. You can only use it on 1 device though. For unlimited simultaneous connections and added features, you‘d need to upgrade to a paid plan. But the free plan alone already beats most other free VPNs in security and reliability.
What to Look for in a Remote Desktop VPN
To find the best VPN for your remote access needs, keep these factors in mind:
- Strong encryption – At minimum AES-256 bit, but look for newer protocols like WireGuard.
- Leak protection – DNS, WebRTC, and IP leak protection are essentials.
- Kill switch – Shuts off the internet if the VPN connection drops accidentally.
- No logging – The VPN should not log any of your activity or connection data.
- Fast speeds – Look for reliable connect speeds, low latency, and lots of servers.
- Simultaneous connections – For team usage, get a VPN with 5+ multi-login support.
- Dedicated IP (optional) – Helpful if you need to whitelist IP addresses for remote access.
- Router support – Allows securing any device connected to the WiFi network.
- Apps – Native apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux for easy setup.
- Unblocking abilities – For accessing restricted content globally.
- Reliability – Check reviews to ensure consistent connections, no downtime.
- Customer support – Look for 24/7 live chat and quick ticket response times.
Setting Up Your VPN for Remote Desktop
Once you‘ve chosen the right VPN service for your needs, it just takes a few quick steps to set it up for remote desktop usage:
- Sign up for your selected VPN service and download the app for your computer OS.
- Install and open the VPN app. Log in using your VPN credentials.
- Connect to a VPN server location of your choice. The app will now show your new virtual IP address.
- Access your company‘s remote desktop portal and log in as usual. All your traffic will now be routed through the encrypted VPN tunnel.
- For added security, enable the VPN‘s kill switch and DNS leak protection in the app settings.
- For team usage, take advantage of multi-login to setup the VPN on employee devices.
And that‘s it! With your VPN protecting your remote desktop connection, you can now work online safely and privately.
FAQs about VPNs for Remote Desktop
Is a free VPN safe for remote desktop use?
Free VPNs often have major limitations like lower speeds, smaller server networks, and less robust encryption. For remotely accessing a business network, we‘d strongly advise against free VPNs as they can expose your data to risks. Investing in a premium VPN is worth it for the enterprise-grade security and performance.
Will a VPN slow down my RDP connection?
A VPN may add a bit of overhead which can slightly increase latency. But with a top-tier VPN service that offers fast speeds on local servers, the impact is usually minimal. Connecting to a nearby server helps maintain speedy connections. Check reviews to pick a VPN with consistently fast speeds.
Can I be tracked if using VPN with RDP?
With the right VPN, you can rest assured your RDP connection is completely anonymous. A VPN hides your IP address which protects your identity and location. Using a reputable service with a strict no-logging policy ensures none of your activity over the VPN is tracked either. Your VPN will replace your IP with a virtual encrypted one not linked to your identity.
Does RDP work through a firewall?
Yes, Remote Desktop Protocol is designed to work through firewalls. By default, the RDP port 3389 must be open in the firewall for the connection to work. A VPN adds an extra layer of encryption but does not block RDP functionality since it tunnels traffic through the open port. Just ensure 3389 is open in any firewalls and the VPN will work seamlessly with RDP.
Can I use my personal computer for remote desktop access through a business VPN?
Generally yes, as long as the computer meets your company‘s device requirements like having a supported OS, antivirus program etc. Download your employer‘s VPN on your personal device and use your work login credentials to securely connect to the business network and remote desktop through the VPN tunnel. Do keep the device updated and use a firewall for optimal security.
Wrap Up
Accessing a remote desktop is extremely convenient for today‘s employees and businesses embracing the work-from-home shift. But without the right VPN safeguards, your data could be put at risk over an unencrypted connection.
We highly recommend protecting all your remote desktop usage with a premium VPN like NordVPN for robust privacy and top-notch security online. Their cutting-edge encryption, large server networks, high speeds, and reliability make them the perfect choice for secure and smooth remote access.
With companies growing more dependent on cloud tech and remote work capabilities, a good VPN is now an essential part of any organization‘s cybersecurity strategy. Investing in a quality VPN like the ones we covered will go a long way in keeping your business‘s assets and sensitive information secure.
