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How ITC Compliance strengthened remote security with NordLayer

Summary: With NordLayer, ITC Compliance simplified remote access, strengthened security, and met compliance needs.

ITC Compliance, based in the UK, helps car dealerships and other retailers meet the standards of the UK’s Financial Services Regulator. By becoming appointed representatives of ITC Compliance, these businesses rely on the organization to handle their compliance. This way, clients stay compliant with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), without dealing with complex rules, allowing them to focus on their main work. 

James Snell, IT Director at ITC Compliance, manages technology strategy and vision, technology teams, cybersecurity, IT infrastructure, and operations. He is also responsible for vendor and stakeholder management. He needs to secure remote access to sensitive internal systems while maintaining regulatory compliance.

The challenge

Securing remote access while meeting regulatory compliance

The COVID-19 pandemic led ITC Compliance to shift to remote and hybrid work. This required a secure way for employees to access internal systems with sensitive data from various locations.

“COVID changed how companies work,” explains James Snell. “Only ITC Compliance employees can access our systems, so we needed secure remote access to internal resources.” Managing individual IP whitelisting for all remote employees was impractical.

“Using a business VPN is easier than whitelisting everyone’s individual IPs,” James notes. “That would be a painstaking task to keep up to date.”

As a regulated company working towards SOX compliance, ITC Compliance also needed strict access controls, which are crucial for certification.

The solution

Using NordLayer for secure and simple remote access

To tackle these issues, ITC Compliance adopted NordLayer as their business VPN in 2020. Routing all employee traffic through NordLayer allowed for a consistent IP address, which simplified security.

“We use NordLayer as a VPN to whitelist IP access to our systems,” says James. “This way, everyone connects through the same IP.”

NordLayer also offered essential security tools, like multi-factor authentication (MFA). This met ITC Compliance’s security needs and supported their SOX compliance goals.

Why choose NordLayer

During renewal, James considered other options but decided to keep NordLayer. The solution felt reliable, and the pricing suited their needs, so switching wasn’t necessary.

NordLayer offered scalability and flexibility, with easy server setup and team routing through different IPs. From a cybersecurity standpoint, NordLayer provided essential tools, including ease of use, strong security features, and simple management with MFA options.

One key feature enabling ITC Compliance to maintain a fixed IP is NordLayer’s Dedicated IP. It ensures online traffic stays private and secure, helps control permissions, and prevents unauthorized access. With NordLayer, a fixed IP allows smooth, secure access to business data from any location. You can control who accesses resources by allowlisting specific IPs. Dedicated servers with fixed IPs cost $40/month and are available on all plans except Lite.

The outcome

Enhanced security and compliance support

NordLayer helped ITC Compliance secure remote access to internal systems. Using a single IP address simplified security management and reduced workload.

“We restrict access to internal systems as an extra layer of security,” explains James. “This forms a part of our compliance towards SOX.”

The NordLayer rollout was smooth, and the team found it easy to use. Scaling is simple, and adding licenses is hassle-free.

“It’s very easy for us to scale,” says James. “If we need to increase licenses, you’re just going to bill us pro rata for the incremental licenses. No issues.”

Pro cybersecurity tips

Protecting sensitive information is crucial, especially for regulated businesses. James Snell shares three essential tips for enhancing security.

With NordLayer, ITC Compliance simplified remote access, strengthened security, and met compliance needs. Try NordLayer to secure your team’s access, no matter where they work.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

What is VPN passthrough and how does it work?

Summary: A VPN passthrough enables encrypted VPN traffic through firewalls but poses security risks. What are the alternatives? Read the full guide for secure solutions.

A VPN passthrough is a router feature that allows data encrypted by VPN protocols to pass network firewall filters.

Passthroughs were once essential to work around router limitations. Improved protocols and security technology have made them less critical. However, some situations still involve the VPN passthrough setting.

Key takeaways

After reading this article, you will:

  • Know what a VPN passthrough is and how passthrough types function.
  • Learn how to configure IPSec, PPTP, and L2TP passthroughs on standard routers.
  • Understand the limitations of VPN passthrough features and common security vulnerabilities.
  • Know how to troubleshoot VPN passthrough security problems and create secure VPN router setups.
  • Learn about effective alternatives to a VPN passthrough and how to choose the right way to establish VPN connections.

VPN passthrough definition

A VPN passthrough is a router feature that allows outbound VPN traffic to pass through a network firewall.

Passthroughs allow businesses to connect devices to VPNs without compromising firewall protection. Users can encrypt traffic leaving the network and hide their activity. The firewall filters other inbound and outbound traffic normally.

Think of a VPN passthrough as a secret passage. Only authorized users can access the passage, and external actors cannot see where it leads.

How does a VPN passthrough work?

Sometimes, compatibility issues arise between VPNs and network routers. Some routers do not support VPN protocols.

VPNs rely on protocols to encrypt and transport data. VPN clients must establish connections with VPN servers outside the network boundary. This leads to problems when Network Address Translation (NAT) setups cannot handle VPN protocols.

NAT assigns a public IP address and sends data to its destination. Unfortunately, older VPN protocols can derail this process. NAT is unable to route packets to their final destination. Instead of creating an encrypted tunnel, routers block data packets and return them to the source.

A VPN passthrough solves this problem. Passthroughs allow routers to recognize protocols like IPSec, L2TP, or PPTP. When the VPN passthrough is engaged, encrypted traffic can pass across the network edge, protecting user data.

Note: Advanced protocols like OpenVPN and WireGuard avoid the need for a VPN passthrough. Modern VPN protocols work with NAT, allowing outbound traffic to the VPN server.

Do all routers need a VPN passthrough?

Not all routers need a VPN passthrough, but some do. It’s important to know whether your routers support VPNs, as configuration issues can expose sensitive data to cyber attackers.

The good news is most routers include a VPN passthrough option. In practice, only very old routers lack passthrough capabilities (and you should probably replace those devices for security reasons).

The bottom line is that you need to enable passthrough for older VPN protocols like IPsec or PPTP. Modern protocols and more secure alternatives make this unnecessary.

If you do need passthrough functionality on your router, choosing the right type matters. That’s where we will turn next.

Types of VPN passthrough

VPN passthroughs deal with different VPN protocols. There is no one-size-fits-all passthrough design, as protocols operate differently. Here are the three main versions:

PPTP passthrough

The point-to-point tunneling protocol (PPTP) uses the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) via Port 1723 and the Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE) protocol.

GRE does not require a specific port or IP address to create a PPTP connection. NAT requires a port number and IP address—creating a conflict. That’s where a PPTP passthrough becomes essential.

The PPTP passthrough feature solves this conflict by assigning a Call ID to GRE headers. The router sees this Call ID as a port number and allows traffic through the firewall.

Users implement a PPTP passthrough via their router firmware. Here’s how to do so:

  1. Find your router IP address and enter it into a browser address bar.
  2. Log onto the router settings tool and find the VPN settings section.
  3. You should see an option to apply a PPTP passthrough. Enable the VPN passthrough and save your settings.
  4. Reboot the router. The VPN passthrough functionality should be enabled.

IPSec passthrough

IPSec (Internet Protocol Security) passthroughs use NAT-Traversal (NAT-T) technology.

NAT-T packages data using the User Datagram Protocol (UDP) to wrap IPSec data. The NAT router can recognize this format but cannot understand encrypted IPSec traffic.

IPSec passthroughs use UDP port 4500 to establish an IKE packet exchange. IKE exchange allows the router to assign a private IP address for IPSec traffic while underlying payloads remain untouched.

Users also implement an IPSec passthrough via router firmware. To do so:

  1. Firstly, log onto your router via a web browser.
  2. Look for the VPN section and the option to enable IPSec passthrough.
  3. You may need to reboot the router after saving passthrough settings.
  4. Test the VPN connection to ensure passthrough is enabled.

L2TP passthrough

The L2TP VPN passthrough resembles the process for PPTP. In this case, passthroughs use Port 1701 to create a VPN connection.

VPN passthroughs assign a Session ID to UDP packets passing over the port. This Session ID substitutes for the port number, allowing transfers via the NAT router.

What is the difference between a VPN and a VPN passthrough?

VPNs and VPN passthroughs sound similar, but they are very different technologies. Passthroughs only allow VPN traffic from internal networks to the public internet. That’s all they do.

Virtual Private Networks are far more powerful network security tools. VPN companies operate servers across the world. The VPN server transports encrypted data and assigns new IP addresses, effectively making users anonymous.

Users generally access the VPN server via a locally-hosted VPN client. VPN software uses protocols to encrypt and send data to servers. A VPN passthrough feature smooths that process.

Companies may also choose to install a VPN router. VPN routers operate on the internal network and eliminate the need to install a VPN client on every device. The router encrypts and anonymizes data and connects with external VPN services.

Passthroughs are not usually needed if you run a VPN router. They may be necessary if you rely on separate clients for devices connected to a standard network router.

VPN passthroughs and security considerations

Let’s assume you continue using PPTP or IPSec and must traverse a typical NAC router. Does this impact your network security status, and should you take action in response?

Firstly, passthroughs are more secure than disabling NAC. This would solve the routing issue, but NAC manages traffic efficiently, conceals IP addresses from the public internet, and allows easy IP changes for network users.

Don’t even think about disabling NAC. Even so, VPN passthroughs generally leave networks more exposed to cybersecurity threats. There are a few reasons why this happens.

  • Firstly, passthroughs can allow connections via insecure old VPN protocols. These protocols are rarely updated (if ever) and become less secure over time.
  • Security teams may not know if users may establish insecure outbound VPN connections — putting data at risk.
  • Another problem is that firewalls cannot inspect VPN traffic passing into and from network devices. This is fine if VPNs use strong encryption, but insecure VPN traffic can become an attack vector.
  • Passthroughs also open ports for attackers to exploit. They may even act as backdoors, allowing freedom of movement for malicious traffic inside the network.

That sounds worrying. However, the best practices below should ensure a secure passthrough setup:

  • Avoid older VPN protocols. Use secure protocols like OpenVPN or WireGuard that are harder to crack and offer better compatibility. Use VPN passthrough as a last resort.
  • Block inactive ports. If you set up a VPN passthrough, only enable port forwarding where necessary. Check and close open ports that the VPN does not need.
  • Maintain authentication and access policies. Limit network access to authorized users and devices. Use multi-factor authentication and processes to limit VPN access.
  • Monitor VPN traffic. Use logs and real-time tracking to detect unusual behavior patterns or potential attacks.
  • Use network segmentation. If you need passthroughs for certain activities, create secure zones with network segmentation tools. That way, intruders will find their path blocked if they exploit passthrough vulnerabilities.
  • Audit passthroughs regularly. It’s never wise to enable VPN passthrough permanently. Regularly check router settings. Disable VPN passthrough when it is no longer needed.
  •  

Alternatives to a VPN passthrough

Another way to avoid the security problems above is to use an alternative solution for outbound VPN traffic. Common alternatives include:

  • SSL encryption. SSL encrypts HTTPS traffic passing across the network edge. You can use SSL as a VPN alternative, but only for web traffic. SSL is a viable alternative for web-based workloads but a poor general security option.
  • RDP. The Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) enables remote work connections without firewall conflicts. It’s a good alternative if you need to access remote devices for maintenance or training. However, RDP does not offer encrypted tunnels, making it less secure than a VPN passthrough.
  • SD-WAN. Software-defined wide-area networks enable companies to create secure networks across many sites. Access controls and encryption transfer data securely without needing a standard VPN.
  • Site-to-Site VPN. Site-to-Site VPNs connect locations via an encrypted tunneling protocol. Internet gateways interact without firewall conflicts, and there is no need for individual clients. However, this VPN style often relies on inefficient hub-and-spoke routing, and configuration can be complex. Problems may also arise when securing cloud deployments.
  • IAM. Identity and Access Management (IAM) partly replaces VPNs for cloud-based and hybrid networks. Admins can control who accesses sensitive assets, blocking unauthorized connections. With the correct security setup, there is no need for an extra VPN or a VPN passthrough.

A VPN passthrough may be necessary to connect older devices or applications and allow remote work. But more advanced alternatives exist. Options include the tools above and modern VPN protocols that render passthroughs obsolete.

Go beyond a VPN passthrough with NordLayer’s security solutions

One thing hasn’t changed—companies must secure connections without compromising firewall performance. As cyber threats mount, protecting data transfers is becoming more important than ever.

NordLayer provides a flexible solution to secure remote connections and optimize efficiency. Our business VPN uses a variant of the WireGuard protocol, with no need to configure a VPN passthrough.

Secure gateways connect remote devices to on-premises and cloud assets. Strong encryption and IP address anonymization keep transfers completely secure. Access controls and Firewall-as-a-Service implement Zero Trust Network Access principles—blocking unknown and unauthorized connections.

Forget about VPN passthrough issues. Our simple, scalable, secure solution protects data and streamlines security management. To find out more, contact the NordLayer team today.

Frequently asked questions

Should VPN passthrough be enabled?

No. As a rule, companies should minimize the need for a VPN passthrough.

Passthroughs rely on outdated VPN protocols and create serious security vulnerabilities. Instead, security teams should invest in a modern router or investigate secure remote access solutions.

Only enable a VPN passthrough if bypassing your firewall is necessary. You may need a point-to-point tunneling protocol (PPTP) passthrough for remote access or operating devices that rely on the PPTP VPN protocol.

If possible, update your setup to accommodate newer protocols. Only use the VPN passthrough as a temporary solution.

What happens if you turn off the VPN passthrough?

Turning off the VPN passthrough is rarely a problem.

Turning off a VPN passthrough can prevent encrypted data transfers through your network firewall. The VPN passthrough allows transfers across older VPN connection types. If the VPN passthrough fails or is not activated, the VPN connection will lapse.

This can cause problems for remote workers who rely on their VPN client to establish outbound VPN connections. In some cases, users may backslide to less secure connection methods.

Generally, choosing to enable VPN passthrough is worse than turning it off. Advanced VPN protocols and tools like IAM provide reliable connectivity and improve security.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

How to disable Edge password manager

Why you might want to deactivate Edge password manager

The Edge password manager is a convenient addition to the browser as it offers basic functionality by saving your passwords directly in the browser. However, there are several reasons you might consider moving away from the built-in tool.

  • Security risks: Sometimes, storing passwords in a browser can make them vulnerable to hacking attempts, especially if your device is lost or compromised. Cybercrooks often target browsers because quite a few people use them to store sensitive data such as passwords, payment cards, and personal details.

  • Limited features: While Edge’s password manager is convenient, it still lacks advanced features like password health analysis, secure password sharing, email masking, sub domain matching for autofill, and so much more.

  • Cross-platform incompatibility: If you use multiple browsers or devices on a daily basis for work or just to run personal errands, syncing passwords across those devices is critical; this way you’ll have your credentials with you at all times. Unfortunately, Edge’s password manager doesn’t offer seamless cross-platform support.

  • Preference for dedicated solutions: Dedicated password managers like NordPass provide enhanced security features, user-friendly interfaces, and better overall management of your digital credentials.

By deactivating Edge’s built-in password manager, you can opt for a solution that offers better security, more advanced features, and more flexibility.

Before you disable your Edge password manager

Disabling the password manager in your Edge browser is more than just flipping a switch. One critical step before disabling the built-in password manager is exporting and saving all your stored passwords. This backup is critical because once the password manager is disabled, your saved passwords may no longer be accessible.

Here’s how you can export your passwords from Edge:

  1. Open Microsoft Edge and click on the three horizontal dots in the upper-right corner.

  2. Select Settings from the drop-down menu.

  3. Click Profiles, then choose Passwords.

  4. At the top of the Saved passwords section, you’ll see an option with three dots. Click it and select Export passwords.

  5. Confirm the action, and choose a secure location on your device to save the exported file.

By exporting your passwords, you ensure that all your login information is safely stored and can be easily imported into a dedicated password manager like NordPass. This not only prevents the hassle of resetting passwords but also provides an opportunity to enhance your online security.

 

How to turn off Edge password manager

Disabling the password manager in Edge is quite simple and should not take too much of your time. Follow these detailed steps:

  1. Launch Microsoft Edge.

  2. Click the three horizontal dots in the upper-right corner of the browser window.

  3. From the dropdown, select Settings.

  4. In the left sidebar of the Settings page, click Profiles.

  5. Under the Profiles section, select Passwords.

  6. Find the option labeled Offer to save passwords.

  7. Toggle the switch to the Off position.

  8. Below that, toggle off Sign in automatically.

  9. If you want to delete the passwords already saved in Edge, scroll down to the Saved passwords section. Here, you can remove individual passwords by clicking the three dots next to each entry and selecting Delete.

  10. Close and reopen the browser to ensure that the changes take effect.

By following these steps, you’ve successfully turned off the password manager in Microsoft Edge.

What happens after disabling Edge password manager

Once you have turned the password manager off in Edge, the browser will no longer prompt you to save passwords when you sign into the website, nor will it automatically fill out your login credentials. In turn, this means that you will need to manually enter your usernames and passwords each time you access your accounts. This change presents a chance to improve your overall online security by switching to a password manager like NordPass. With NordPass, you can securely store your passwords, enjoy automatic form filling, and benefit from advanced security features that offer stronger protection than the built-in password managers.

Advantages of using NordPass over a built-in password manager

Switching to a dedicated password manager like NordPass is not an upgrade but a full change in how you secure and manage your life online. While the built-in password manager offers basic and convenient functionality, NordPass takes that to the next level with advanced features, advanced security, and unmatched convenience.

Advanced security measures

NordPass uses state-of-the-art encryption protocols, more precisely XChaCha20 encryption combined with zero-knowledge architecture. This essentially means that your data is encrypted on your device before reaching the servers of NordPass, and you alone retain keys for decrypting it. On top of that, NordPass supports multi-factor authentication (MFA), adding that extra layer of security by requiring further verification methods when trying to access your vault.

Seamless cross-platform functionality

With NordPass, your passwords, passkeys, payment card data, secure notes, and personal information are synchronized across all your devices, whether you’re using Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS. This cross-platform accessibility eliminates the limitations associated with browser-specific password managers. At the end of the day, with a dedicated password manager, you will have access to your credentials whenever and wherever you need them.

Better user experience and features

NordPass is designed in such a way that its intuitiveness and user-friendly interface make password management pretty easy, even if you’re not a tech-head. The Password Health feature goes through the passwords stored in your NordPass vault and identifies weak, reused, or old passwords, suggesting updates toward stronger alternatives. The built-in Data Breach Scanner monitors your credentials for exposure. If your information has been compromised, NordPass alerts you immediately so you can take immediate action to secure your accounts.

By transitioning to NordPass, you’re not merely replacing Edge’s basic password storage—you’re adopting a comprehensive security solution that actively safeguards your digital identity. NordPass’ advanced encryption, cross-platform accessibility, and user-friendly features elevate your online security to a higher standard.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

What is the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy?

This practice, where employees use their personal devices for work, is called the Bring Your Own Device policy. But it’s not just about personal preference or convenience. A BYOD policy is a formalized approach that allows—or, in fact, sometimes requires—employees to use their personal devices for work-related activities while ensuring data security, compliance, and productivity for the organization. Let’s take a closer look at what a BYOD policy entails, how it’s shaping the modern workplace, what its drawbacks are, and why companies are embracing it regardless. 

Importance of BYOD security

Now, imagine Bob, a young but experienced business analyst, accessing sensitive client information from his personal laptop. As straightforward as it seems, there’s a critical factor at play—security. Since data breaches and cyberattacks are becoming more sophisticated and frequent, Bob’s access could be considered a double-edged sword. His personal device, outside the company’s control, could be vulnerable to risks that no one sees coming, including Bob.

This is where a robust BYOD security policy steps in. It’s not just about enabling access to company resources—it’s about enforcing the right security practices.

A company’s data is its lifeblood, and protecting it requires more than just trust in employees. It demands clear rules, stringent protocols, and continuous vigilance. Whether it’s encryption, multi-factor authentication, or password management, the security layer embedded within the BYOD policies ensures that convenience doesn’t come at the cost of exposure. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of implementing a secure BYOD policy.

Benefits of the BYOD policy

Increased productivity

Employees are already familiar with their personal devices, which means they spend less time learning new systems. This allows them to work more efficiently, with fewer technical hiccups, and instant access to the tools they need whenever they need them—whether they’re in the office or working remotely.

Enhanced employee satisfaction

Let’s face it—people enjoy working on devices they’ve chosen for themselves. Giving employees this flexibility fosters a sense of autonomy, improving morale and job satisfaction. Hence, the Bring Your Own Device approach contributes to higher job satisfaction, better engagement, and possibly improved retention rates.

Faster technology adoption and cost savings

When you’ve got BYOD in the workplace, employees often use newer devices than those provided by the company. This leads to faster technology adoption without requiring the business to invest in the latest tech, which can save significant costs on equipment, updates, and repairs over time.

Flexible work environment

By combining WFA and BYOD policies, employees can work from virtually anywhere, at any time. This flexibility not only boosts productivity but also supports the work-life balance that’s never been as valued as it is today.

Enhanced company reputation

Companies that embrace the Bring Your Own Device model often develop a reputation for being forward-thinking and adaptable. This is attractive to potential employees and clients alike. The ability to support a flexible and mobile workforce shows that a company is prepared to meet the demands of a modern business landscape, enhancing its reputation in an already competitive market.

Challenges of the BYOD policy

While the benefits of the BYOD policy are obvious, the transition to a Bring Your Own Device environment isn’t without its challenges. As companies strive to embrace flexibility and mobile work capabilities, they must also navigate the complexities that come with managing and securing personal devices.

The complexity of ensuring data security

With employees accessing company data across various personal devices, ensuring consistent data security becomes quite a difficult task. Unlike company-issued devices, personal phones, laptops, and tablets vary in terms of security features, operating systems, and software. This means IT departments must account for a wide range of devices, all of which need to meet strict security protocols. Without a solid personal device policy, securing data on multiple endpoints becomes a daunting challenge.

Risk of device loss and malware attacks

Personal device loss is a significant risk in a BYOD environment. If an employee loses their device—whether it’s a phone left at a café or a stolen laptop—sensitive company data can be compromised. Additionally, personal devices, which often lack the same diligent security measures as company-owned equipment, are more vulnerable to endpoint attacks and malware. And once malware infiltrates an employee’s device, it can easily spread to the company’s network, introducing further security risks.

Growing awareness of security risks

As people become more aware of the security risks, companies are embracing BYOD policies, but with a twist—they’re putting data protection front and center. Businesses are now pouring resources into security tools like mobile device management (MDM) systems and encryption techniques to keep BYOD safe. The idea here is clear: while BYOD offers flexibility and helps cut costs, it also needs constant attention and smart security strategies to stay risk-free.

IT burden and security concerns

While BYOD lowers expenses related to hardware and software, it comes with increased responsibilities for IT departments. Managing a diverse range of devices, ensuring secure access to corporate networks, and responding to potential security breaches puts significant pressure on IT teams. The need for continuous monitoring, regular updates, and enforcing compliance can lead some companies to shy away from adopting BYOD policies altogether.

BYOD security best practices

Implementing a strong BYOD policy can seem like walking a tightrope—balancing convenience with security. To make it all work, companies need smart strategies that address both. Here are the top 5 BYOD policy best practices that help safeguard company data while maintaining the convenience of personal device use:

  • Define usage boundaries: Set clear rules for what personal devices can access.

  • Prioritize password management: Think secure, unique passwords for all apps, with a reliable password manager to simplify compliance.

  • Keep devices updated: Ensure everyone runs the latest security patches.

Regular training: Educate employees about security threats like phishing.

  • Prepare for breaches: Have a plan in place for when a device is compromised.

Businesses face unique challenges when implementing BYOD policies, but this is especially true for small businesses. Limited IT resources often mean businesses need to rely heavily on user education and simplified security solutions to maintain data integrity. A BYOD policy for small businesses should emphasize the importance of strong passwords, regular software updates, and basic encryption tools, ensuring personal devices work for you, not against you.

Bottom line

Developing and enforcing a solid BYOD policy is all about striking the right balance. It allows your team to use personal devices seamlessly while keeping sensitive data safe from unnecessary risks. However, to implement your policy effectively, you need the right tools—like NordPass.

NordPass offers a crucial layer of protection that is required to make the BYOD policy work. By allowing employees to securely store and manage passwords across all their devices—whether personal or company-issued—NordPass helps organizations defend against one of the most common vulnerabilities: weak or reused passwords.

By making NordPass part of your BYOD policy, you’re not just improving your company’s cybersecurity—you’re giving your team the freedom to work smarter. It’s about making security effortless so your workforce stays flexible—without the headaches of risky shortcuts.

And that’s not all—NordPass has plenty of other features to help keep things in check and prevent employees from relying on unauthorized solutions. If you’re curious to learn more, be sure to check out our website for all the details.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

How do password managers work?

Security guidelines state that all accounts, regardless of their importance, should use unique and complicated passwords. Unfortunately, the burden of juggling different accounts with long passwords that are difficult to keep track of or enter without typos leads to people settling for simpler, repetitive, and far less resilient passwords. 

This struggle can be easily solved once you know how password managers work to support your credential handling. Whether it’s a built-in browser password manager or a dedicated third-party tool, they let you conveniently keep track of your credentials without losing out on that security factor. Let’s look into how password managers actually work, what features they may offer, and what makes them a safe choice to store all sensitive details in one place.

What is a password manager?

Password managers are pretty self-explanatory—they’re tools that let you store and manage your login credentials. They do the heavy lifting for you by storing your essential login information, such as your usernames, passwords, and email addresses.

Even if the term doesn’t ring a bell, chances are you’ve already used one before. Browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Opera have built-in password managers that let you save your login details, saving you time whenever you need to log in. Third-party password managers are generally regarded as a more secure alternative to their browser counterparts.

What does a password manager do?

The primary purpose of a password manager is to provide secure storage for sensitive information. This is achieved through encryption—the process of scrambling data so that it can only be accessed if you have the right key to decipher it. A password manager like NordPass encrypts information on your device and, once it’s scrambled, sends it to the servers for safekeeping. This helps ensure that even in the case of a breach, the data is not accessible to unauthorized parties in plaintext.

As for the data itself—despite the name, password managers are not limited to passwords alone. They also provide storage for email addresses, personal addresses, ID information, banking details, and any other sensitive data that you want to keep safe. Password managers can even provide storage for passwordless solutions—NordPass lets its users store and manage passkeys.

Secure storage is just the tip of the iceberg. By now, password generators are a basic requirement for both browser-based and standalone password managers. Password generators help easily create unique and complex passwords that meet the standards of various security protocols. Instead of coming up with a password yourself, you can have the password manager generate a random, one-of-a-kind string of characters for you.

Password managers can take the chore out of finding the right password for the right account. Although you can use the vault search function or sort your credentials alphabetically when you need them, password managers eliminate this manual step altogether with autofill. This function instantly finds the login credentials you need and inputs them for you, instantly letting you access your account. Additionally, autosave detects whenever you’re entering credentials that aren’t in your vault and lets you store them without needing to type them out yourself.

 

Family password management

We usually focus on the benefits password managers offer to individuals. But did you know that you can share this tool with your friends and family and keep your entire closest circle protected online?

A password manager facilitates secure and convenient credential sharing. Imagine a family of five using a single Amazon account but scattered across different households. Using a password manager like NordPass, they can securely juggle access to the shared account. No need to send an unencrypted text message, a screenshot, or spell it out over the phone—you can simply select the password you want to share, who you want to share it with, and what access permissions you want to grant.

Managing passwords within a family is also convenient for broader security. Setting up a NordPass Family account grants access to Premium features like the Data Breach Scanner, which tracks the dark web for any signs of leaked personal information, and Password Health, which lets you know if any of your passwords are old, weak, or reused.

Multiply that by six, and you have your family’s cybersecurity sorted. And don’t forget, a family password manager doesn’t mean it has to be your relatives only—you can bring your spouse or friends along for the ride.

Business password management

Have you ever given in to the temptation to reuse one of your personal passwords for a work-related account to save time? It wouldn’t be surprising—between juggling accounts for personal and professional use, an average person has to handle 168 and 87 passwords, respectively.

A business password manager is here to keep things simple and separate personal and work credentials. It helps organizations optimize their workflows and implement centralized password usage policies that uphold high security standards.

Many features related to corporate credential security are handled from the admin side of password managers. For example, using NordPass, security managers can establish password strength requirements, such as password length, use of special characters, and frequency of updates.

Companies can set up extra layers of security, like multi-factor authentication, across the company. Additionally, NordPass offers a built-in Authenticator, allowing employees to easily generate two-factor codes for their work accounts and access login credentials all in one place.

As for employees themselves, they can handle their work-related accounts, such as corporate emails, social media communications, or banking. They can also securely share credentials with their colleagues or clients for collaboration.

NordPass allows Business users to control their shared access permissions to maintain data security. No need to fear losing track of what’s been shared—the Activity Log gives a clear overview of who created, edited, or granted access to credentials.

How to use a password manager

The hardest step in getting started with a password manager is finding the right one for you. The core will be similar everywhere—all you need to do is create an account, set up a master password, and add credentials to your encrypted vault. And if you’re looking for additional security for your cyber life, look no further than NordPass.

Whether you’re looking to cover your own personal needs, handle sensitive work-related data, or share passwords more securely with your friends and family, NordPass offers something for everyone. It’s built on zero-knowledge architecture and uses XChaCha20 encryption to provide a high level of security for both your personal and professional sensitive data. Start your hassle-free digital life with NordPass—a password manager that puts convenience first without compromising your security.

About Version 2 Digital

Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

About NordPass
NordPass is developed by Nord Security, a company leading the global market of cybersecurity products.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

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