NordLayer vs NordVPN Unlocking the Secured Connections
In the era of increasing digitization, cyber criminals pose a significant threat to both businesses and individuals.
This heightened risk underscores the importance of prioritizing cybersecurity to safeguard our devices and networks.
However, the wide array of available cybersecurity tools often leads to confusion.
It’s challenging to discern the specific functions of each VPN service, particularly when a single company offers a diverse range of products.
A prime example is Nord Security, the parent company of NordLayer and NordVPN.
Although they may appear similar at first glance, these two services differ significantly in terms of functionalities.
Let’s delve into a comprehensive overview highlighting the distinctions and similarities between the two.
What is NordLayer?
Previously, NordVPN Teams emerged as a specialized Virtual Private Network service tailored to organizations rather than individuals.
Introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, it boasted features such as a network administrator dashboard, transferable licenses, and centralized billing, setting it apart from consumer-oriented VPNs.
However, NordVPN Teams underwent significant expansion, rendering its classification as solely a business VPN inadequate.
Consequently, a rebranding effort was undertaken in 2021, resulting in its new identity—NordLayer.
With the rebranding came a shift in focus. NordLayer adopted the Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) framework, prioritizing Secure Service Edge (SSE) capabilities.
SSE represents a forward-looking cybersecurity suite, integrating multiple technologies into a single, cloud-native service.
Notably, NordLayer leverages network security solutions like FWaaS, SWG, and ZTNA, aiming to deliver advanced cybersecurity in an accessible and organization-friendly manner.
Who Is Nordlayer For?
NordLayer serves as a vital tool for businesses seeking to enhance their agility and resilience in the face of diverse cybersecurity risks. Its key applications include:
- Secure remote access for hybrid work: In the post-pandemic era, ensuring secure access to internal company resources is paramount. NordLayer facilitates the establishment of a secure tunnel, enabling employees to connect seamlessly to sensitive data.
- Protecting employee internet access: Employees often unknowingly click on malicious links, putting the organization at risk. NordLayer deploys various filters to restrict access to potentially harmful links, safeguarding distributed workforces.
- Facilitating bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies: Implementing consistent security measures for user devices can be challenging. By offering a simple app installation, NordLayer alleviates the burden on network administrators, streamlining the implementation of BYOD policies.
- Assisting regulatory compliance: Industries dealing with sensitive user data face stringent regulations. NordLayer incorporates numerous functionalities that enhance the overall cybersecurity environment, aiding organizations in achieving regulatory compliance certification.
- Enhancing productivity: NordLayer optimizes management productivity through features such as centralized policy enforcement, user provisioning, and single invoicing. These streamlined processes simplify administrative tasks, saving valuable time and resources.
With its comprehensive capabilities, NordLayer empowers businesses to strengthen their security posture and effectively navigate the complex realm of cybersecurity.
What is NordVPN?
In contrast, NordVPN is designed exclusively for the consumer market, catering to the needs of individuals.
This service operates expansive anonymity networks on a global scale, available through a subscription model.
Upon logging in, users are presented with a user-friendly map featuring multiple countries and servers, allowing them to effortlessly switch their IP address and location with a simple click.
NordVPN appeals to a diverse user base.
Some seek enhanced cybersecurity through encrypted connections, while others utilize it for streaming content or evading censorship.
As an everyday cybersecurity solution, NordVPN seamlessly integrates into your regular internet usage, providing a hassle-free way to bolster your online privacy and security.
Who Is NordVPN For?
NordVPN primarily caters to a wide range of consumer-oriented needs, positioning itself as an ideal product for home users. Let’s explore some key use cases:
- Secure Internet access: By encrypting your connection, NordVPN ensures that your online activities remain indecipherable to both Internet Service Providers and potential hackers. This safeguards your privacy and prevents the collection of identifying information.
- Public Wi-Fi security: Connecting to public Wi-Fi networks always carries risks. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities and intercept your data. With NordVPN’s encryption, your connection becomes impervious to such unauthorized access attempts, providing a secure browsing experience.
- Unlock better deals: Different regions offer varying discounts and promotions. NordVPN enables you to virtually change your location, granting you access to region-locked deals, and ultimately saving you money on online purchases.
- Enhance anonymity: NordVPN does not collect user data passing through its servers. This commitment to privacy empowers you to keep your online activities anonymous, preserving your digital footprint from prying eyes.
- Circumvent censorship: In countries where governments impose strict control over free speech, NordVPN acts as a tool to bypass such restrictions. With encrypted VPN traffic, it becomes significantly more challenging to monitor or control your internet access, allowing you to access a free and unrestricted online environment.
Nordlayer vs NordVPN Main Differences
Despite sharing a common parent company, NordSecurity, these VPN services, NordLayer and NordVPN, are distinct services with significant differences.
NordLayer is a business-oriented product designed to provide network access security.
It enables organizations to establish secure remote access to work resources through dedicated servers and IP whitelisting, managed by network administrators.
On the other hand, NordVPN is a consumer-focused VPN service that allows users to change their location and IP address by connecting to a fleet of servers.
It serves as an anonymity and cybersecurity tool tailored for home users.
While both services address cybersecurity, they emphasize different aspects.
NordLayer focuses on securing business networks, while NordVPN enhances the internet experience for individuals and ensures their safety.
Their functionalities are entirely separate.
Understanding the distinctions between NordLayer and NordVPN becomes clearer with this information, despite their numerous similarities.
It is important to note that NordLayer originated as a spin-off from NordVPN, which explains the overlapping features.
For instance, both services offer DNS filtering, and dedicated servers can be purchased from either provider.
However, it’s worth mentioning that NordVPN lacks customization options compared to NordLayer.
Summary
With the increasing frequency of data breaches, there is a growing demand for cybersecurity tools among businesses and individuals.
However, navigating the world of cybersecurity can be overwhelming, especially when comparing tools designed for businesses like NordLayer and consumer tools like NordVPN.
NordLayer is specifically designed to safeguard businesses, their workforce, and sensitive data.
On the other hand, NordVPN places more emphasis on providing anonymity and internet flexibility to its users.
While NordLayer incorporates certain NordVPN-like features such as Virtual Shared Gateways, which offer similar functionality to the consumer product, it is not the main focus of the service.
In contrast, NordVPN offers a broader range of features dedicated to bypassing censorship and protecting users’ identities.
When comparing NordLayer and NordVPN, it becomes evident that they offer distinct aspects of cybersecurity tailored to different use cases.
NordLayer serves as a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) provider, focusing on network access control and security for multiple accounts within an organization.
On the other hand, NordVPN is primarily an anonymity service catering to individual users’ needs.
Ultimately, the best VPN service for you will depend on your individual needs and budget.
If you are a business that needs a high level of security and privacy, and you are willing to pay more, then NordLayer is a good option.
If you are an individual that needs a high level of security and privacy, and you are looking for an affordable option, then NordVPN is a good option.
