Perimeter 81 vs NordLayer Comparison: Which One is Better For Your Business

Network security is more critical than ever as cyber threats continue to grow. With cybercrime projected to cost the global economy $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, businesses are feeling the pressure to prioritize proactive security measures.

The need to protect sensitive data, secure remote access, and maintain operational continuity has never been more urgent. For many businesses, this means deciding between leading network security solutions like Perimeter 81 and NordLayer.

Both Perimeter 81 and NordLayer are renowned for their ability to secure remote access and ensure safe online environments, making them particularly relevant as remote work becomes more widespread. However, despite their similar functions, each platform offers unique features and benefits suited to different business needs and priorities.

In this Perimeter 81 vs NordLayer comparison, we’ll dive into what sets them apart, helping you determine which solution aligns best with your company’s security goals.

Perimeter 81 vs NordLayer Quick Comparison

Key Features of Perimeter 81 and NordLayer

Just like other best business VPNs, Perimeter 81 and NordLayer offer a great suite of advanced features to keep your business safe.

Here are some of the key features of both VPNs that make them the best in the industry:

Perimeter 81 Features

• Dedicated IPs
• Posture check
• Network-based split tunneling
• Secure web gateway
• Malware protection
• Ability to connect cloud apps (Google Cloud, Azure)
• Always-On VPN
• User and device monitoring
• Two Factor Authentication

For more details, check out our Perimeter 81 review.

Dedicated Servers with Dedicated IPs

Dedicated servers and IP addresses ensure that only your employees can access the company’s internal network. Essentially, this means that unauthorized individuals won’t be able to reach your resources unless connected to the dedicated VPN server, thereby safeguarding your confidential data from unwanted intruders.

This setup is especially beneficial for remote workers using VPNs, as it prevents cybercriminals from easily infiltrating and stealing sensitive company information.

Split Tunneling

If you’re familiar with VPNs, you’ve probably encountered split tunneling. Typically, this feature lets you choose which apps or websites use the VPN connection.

However, Perimeter 81 offers a unique twist on split tunneling. Instead of targeting apps or websites, you can select specific subnets to route through the VPN tunnel. Additionally, Perimeter 81 now supports FQDN split tunneling, allowing the use of domain names, such as those listed by Google for Meet.

Secure Web Gateway

To safeguard sensitive company data, Perimeter 81 has implemented a Secure Web Gateway (SWG). This web filtering tool prevents employees from visiting malicious sites that could compromise workplace devices. Beyond improving security, it also boosts productivity by limiting access to non-work-related content.

Administrators can configure web filtering rules through the same admin panel that manages other features. For example, they can block access to categories like gaming or streaming services, while allowing exceptions for specific users who may bypass certain filters.

This feature of Perimeter 81 is flexible in terms of deployment, as you can use it for on-premise appliances or a cloud service.

Device Posture Check

The Device Posture Check (DCP) feature ensures that employees can only access the company network using secure devices.

Admins have the flexibility to define what constitutes a secure device. For instance, you can allow only devices with specific antivirus software, proper encryption, or valid authentication certificates. Additionally, you can create profiles for different device groups to tailor security requirements.

Malware Protection

Perimeter 81’s Malware Protection feature defends employees against online threats by scanning web pages and downloads before users interact with them. Whether it’s a website with malware or a virus-laden download, this tool helps prevent damage to devices.

It inspects all web traffic, including downloads and JavaScript, using a combination of updated signature-based detection and machine-learning algorithms to identify emerging threats.

If malware is detected and blocked, users are notified with details about the threat, and admins can track all blocked threats via the activity dashboard.

User Management

Managing users on Perimeter 81 is straightforward, even with a wide range of management options. If you’re familiar with business VPNs, you’ll find it easy to adapt to this platform.

The platform allows you to create user groups and assign varying permissions. For example, you can restrict access to specific websites, block certain IPs, or manage content categories. You can even exclude specific domains from blocked categories.

Additionally, Perimeter 81 allows you to customize VPN client settings, such as:

• enabling Always-On VPN
• disabling certain servers
• enforcing automatic updates
• activating a kill switch
• enabling two-factor authentication
• setting default protocols for different operating systems
• resetting passwords.

Two-Factor Authentication

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to VPN accounts, which is especially crucial for businesses.

Perimeter 81 offers several methods for 2FA, including SMS or push notification codes, Google Authenticator’s unique number sequence, or the convenient Duo Security app. Additionally, the platform supports Single Sign-On (SSO) services like Okta, which come with their own multi-factor authentication options for even greater security.

NordLayer Features

NordLayer is a full business VPN, that can be used personally, but it offers bunch of features geared towards companies. These features include:

• Smart Remote Access
• Multi-factor authentication
• Virtual Private Gateways
• Fixed IP and IP allow listing
• Site-to-Site
• DNS fitering by category
• Custom DNS
• Always On VPN
• Deep Packet Inspection
• ThreatBlock
• AES 256-bit encryption
• User Provisioning
• Biometric Authentication
• Cloud Firewall (FWaaS)
• Network segmentation

You can learn more about it in our NordVPN review.

Gateways and Server Locations

NordLayer operates over 30 server locations worldwide, utilizing Shared and Virtual Private Gateways to enable businesses to securely connect to both local and cloud networks.

• Shared Gateways create encrypted tunnels for remote users to safely access the internet, allowing them to reach geo-specific content and engage in activities like Q&A sessions and automated testing from different virtual locations.
• Virtual Private Gateways, in contrast, use dedicated servers to securely link devices to both cloud-based resources and on-premises networks. These gateways enable businesses to implement IP allowlisting and finely tuned network segmentation for enhanced security.

Having a dedicated server with a fixed IP is vital for safeguarding a company’s data, as it prevents unauthorized access to sensitive information, such as documents and financial records.

Cloud Firewall (FWaaS)

NordLayer also offers Cloud Firewall (FWaaS), a flexible and scalable network security solution that operates as part of the cloud Security Service Edge. This service is low-maintenance and adaptable, unlike traditional physical firewalls.

Network Segmentation

Network segmentation is an advanced feature particularly valuable for larger organizations. It divides the network into subnets, improving both security and performance.

For instance, specific branches can be restricted from accessing financial systems, allowing companies to control which resources employees can access.

User Authentication & Management

NordLayer incorporates several robust authentication and user management features, including Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), biometric authentication, Single Sign-On (SSO), and user provisioning to strengthen security.

To prevent unauthorized VPN access and protect company data, two-factor authentication is available. Employees can authenticate via SMS or TOTP (authenticator apps).

Instead of traditional login methods, users can sign in using Single Sign-On (SSO) options, such as:

• Azure AD
• Google
• JumpCloud
• Okta
• OneLogin

NordLayer Control Panel

NordLayer provides a user-friendly Control Panel, centralized billing, license portability, and integration with various network vendors to streamline administrative tasks.

The Control Panel is a web-based interface, making it simple and intuitive to use, even for those new to business VPN solutions. It has the following sections:

• Organization: Manage teams and individual members, including their status (Active, Suspended, Invited, Inactive).
• Network: Manage all gateway and server details.
• Settings: Set up the Smart Remote Access feature for offline access to company resources, with support from an account manager.
• Downloads: Access NordLayer applications and share manual configuration instructions with team members.
• Activity: View user and connection activity logs.
• Device Security: Evaluate and track device compliance with security rules, with notifications for non-compliant devices.

With the control panel, administrators can:

1. Invite new members and assign roles/teams
2. Configure remote connections between sites or devices
3. Create Virtual Private Gateways and allocate dedicated servers
4. Set up user provisioning with leading SCIM providers
5. Choose login methods
6. Enforce multi-factor authentication
7. Implement network access controls like segmentation, IP allowlisting, and cloud firewalls
8. Secure internet access with features such as DNS filtering, custom DNS, DPI, and Threatblock
9. Develop Device Posture Security profiles
10. Monitor network connections, devices, and admin activities
11. Apply additional security settings like Always-On VPN, auto-connect, and idle session timeouts
12. Manage subscriptions and download invoices

Network Connectors

Network connectors like Site-to-Site and Smart Remote Access offer more flexibility for hybrid working setups.

Site-to-site connectors are ideal for companies with multiple locations needing secure access to corporate networks. These connectors establish encrypted VPN tunnels between different networks, ensuring safe data exchange away from external threats.

Smart Remote Access helps create a virtual Local Area Network (LAN) for secure device connections within the internal network, enabling file sharing and secure access to devices without the limitations of a traditional LAN.

Monitoring Options

Network monitoring is improved with Activity Monitoring reports that provide visibility into user connections to and from gateways. These reports display details such as member names, devices, and source IP addresses. They also include a history of member activity, showing the date and time of each connection session.

In addition, NordLayer offers Device Posture Monitoring, a security feature that enables administrators to assess devices based on predefined security criteria and receive notifications about any devices that do not comply with the set standards.

NordLayer vs Perimeter 81 Logging Policies

Perimeter 81 and NordLayer are both top-of-the-line small business VPNs offering amazing features and security for businesses. Let’s take a closer look at their logging policies.

Is Perimeter 81 Safe?

Perimeter 81 is widely recognized as one of the most secure VPN providers available. Similar to other top-tier services, it employs AES-256 encryption to protect your internet traffic and sensitive data. This encryption standard is commonly used by financial institutions and military organizations and is virtually unbreakable by brute-force methods.

It’s important to note that no third party, including the cloud provider, can access your data. However, Perimeter 81 does collect certain details to ensure a seamless experience for your business. The information tracked includes:

• Admin activities (such as inviting team members and adjusting permissions)
• User activities (including connection timestamps and the device’s location at the time of the connection)
• Payment information (such as the last four digits of your credit card, along with your name and address)

Is NordLayer Safe?

NordLayer is a secure option for users, utilizing AES-256 encryption, which is the industry standard for organizations that demand high levels of security, such as financial institutions and government agencies.

When it comes to tunneling protocols, NordLayer excels as well. You can opt for NordLynx, an enhanced version of WireGuard developed by NordVPN. This protocol maintains high speeds while offering improved security.

However, there are some concerns regarding its jurisdiction. In 2020, NordLayer moved its operations from Panama to the US, a country that is part of the 14-Eyes alliance and has less favorable privacy protections. To better understand its data practices, it’s important to review the service’s logging policy.

Fortunately, NordLayer’s logging practices are similar to those of other business VPNs. It collects basic data, such as your company’s IP address and email, which are necessary for providing the service.

It’s worth noting, however, that NordLayer’s website does collect additional information, including details about your operating system, IP address, browser, and cookies.

In contrast, Perimeter 81 does not collect such extensive personally identifiable information. 

Perimeter 81 vs NordLayer Speed and Performance

Perimeter 81 Speed and Performance Test

Perimeter 81 is a speedy VPN service, great for businesses of all sizes. Just like other top competitors, Perimeter 81 offers WireGuard protocol, so you ought to expect fast connection speeds on its servers. It is in fact one of the fastest VPNs on the market.

I tested the VPN on my 100 Mbps base connection and was quite impressed with the results. If you don’t have time to dig into full in-depth speed results, here is a brief table showing the speed I got on various servers.

As you can see, the speed offered was pretty amazing on all its servers, especially short-distance servers. I was really surprised to see that Perimeter 81 offered a download speed close to my actual speed when I connected to its UK Private gateway server.

After taking everything into consideration, I would say Perimeter is a fast VPN that delivers reliable connection speeds, and it is capable of offering its promised speed of up to 1000 Mbps if your internet connection allows it.

NordLayer Speed and Performance Test

NordLayer is a pretty fast VPN thanks to its NordLynx protocol.

It’s an upgraded version of the WireGuard protocol used for fast-speed connections.

Although some servers take some time to establish a connection, NordVPN is one of the fastest VPNs out there. Speed changes a lot when you connect to long-distance servers, so make sure to connect to nearby servers for fast speed.

I ran speed tests on a 100 Mbps connection, and the results were quite impressive. If you are short on time, you can see the speed test results in this table:

NordLynx retains almost 90% of the speed, while OpenVPN TCP slows down the internet speed more. During testing, it only retained almost 40% of the speed.

Interface and Ease of Use Perimeter 81 vs NordLayer

Interface and Apps of Perimeter 81

Despite its advanced features, Perimeter 81 is easy to use with basic apps. Perimeter 81 provides sleek, modern applications for a range of devices, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. Note that these apps are intended for VPN users, with all administrative tasks handled through the web client.

The desktop apps are simple and straightforward, which is actually an advantage, making them quick to install and easy to navigate.

The mobile apps (for Android and iOS) mirror their desktop counterparts in design and functionality, though there are a few missing features. For instance, the mobile versions lack options like “Connect on Launch,” notification settings, and automatic updates. However, these limitations shouldn’t cause much difficulty for users.

The web client serves as a cloud-based management console, where you can handle tasks like adding or removing VPN users, managing permissions, and organizing user groups. It’s important to note that you cannot use the web client as a proxy for browsing websites.

Overall, the management console is user-friendly, though some familiarity with networking and cryptography may be helpful to fully grasp its functions. Everything, from tunneling protocols to support and server settings, is neatly organized into separate tabs, allowing for easy configuration with just a few clicks.

Interface and Apps of NordLayer

NordLayer is designed to be user-friendly, with its apps featuring minimal settings and being straightforward to use.

It is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and Linux (note that the Linux version lacks a graphical user interface). Additionally, browser extensions are available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.

The NordLayer Windows app features a dark, clean design that’s easy to navigate. The Settings tab includes simple options for general settings, auto-connect, tunneling protocol selection, and account management.

The macOS version of the app has a different layout, with the menu located at the top of the screen rather than on the side. Its Preferences window also has a lighter theme, contrasting with the dark Windows interface. While it supports biometric login, it does not offer the kill switch feature, which is also missing from the iOS app.

The Android app, like its Windows counterpart, is straightforward to use and follows the same dark theme, which is easy on the eyes.

The iOS app also features a dark theme and mirrors the Android app in appearance and functionality. Notably, the iOS version includes almost all of the features available on the Android app, which is relatively uncommon among VPN providers.

Pricing Plans of Perimeter 81 and NordLayer

Perimeter 81 Pricing Plans

Perimeter 81 associates itself as a business VPN rather than a personal VPN software, therefore, its pricing plans are a bit different from conventional providers like ExpressVPN or Surfshark. However, its price depends on the number of users.

Here are the plans currently offered by Perimeter 81:

• Essentials: $8 per user/mo – Minimum 5 users ($40/mo per gateway)
• Premium: min. $12 per user/mo – Minimum 10 users ($40/mo per gateway)
• Premium Plus: $16 per user/mo – Minimum 20 users ($40/mo per gateway)
• Enterprise: No fixed pricing – Minimum of 50 users

These are the prices if you choose to go with an Annual Perimeter 81 plan. However, if you choose to go with the monthly plan, the prices are a little more expensive:

• Essentials: $10 per user/mo – Minimum 5 users ($50/mo per gateway)
• Premium: min. $15 per user/mo – Minimum 10 users ($50/mo per gateway)
• Premium Plus: $20 per user/mo – Minimum 20 users ($50/mo per gateway)
• Enterprise: No fixed pricing – Minimum of 50 users

So, as you can see, the annual plans offer the best savings. If you are a big organization, you can go for the Enterprise plan that does not have any fixed costs, and you can negotiate with customer support if you are considering the option.

NordLayer Pricing Plans

NordLayer is priced similarly to Perimeter 81. It has a minimum number of users of 5, whereas Perimeter 81 has a minimum number of 10-20 users. With NordLayer, you also get a 14-day money-back guarantee and 6 simultaneous connections.

Here are NordLayer’s plans:

• Lite: $8.00 user/month (yearly)
• Core: $11.00 user/month (yearly)
• Premium: $14.00/user/month (yearly)
• Custom: Consultation required

Its Lite plan is the cheapest, with either $8/month or $10/month for a user if you choose the yearly plan. Keep in mind that you don’t get a dedicated IP with this subscription.

Customer Support of Perimeter 81 vs NordLayer

Perimeter 81 Customer Support

Perimeter 81 VPN offers multiple ways to access customer support. If you don’t have an account, you can explore their knowledge base or submit a ticket to receive a response via email.

Paid users, however, have additional support options, including dedicated chat and email assistance. Essentials plan subscribers can expect answers during office hours, while Premium and Premium Plus users receive prioritized responses. The Premium Plus plan also offers phone support during office hours and a dedicated account manager.

The Enterprise plan stands out by providing 24/7 phone and live chat support, along with a dedicated account manager.

We had the opportunity to test Perimeter 81’s customer support when encountering login issues on Android. The support agent was prompt, professional, and efficient, leaving a strong positive impression.

Customer Support of NordLayer

NordLayer also offers excellent customer support, with 24/7 access to agents through live chat or email. Their extensive knowledge base is another helpful resource. When we tested their live chat, we received a response almost immediately.

Core plan subscribers and above enjoy priority 24/7 support and a dedicated account manager. Those on the Custom plan benefit from premium live support for custom technical implementations, in addition to a dedicated account manager.

Final Verdict

That brings us to the end of our comparison between Perimeter 81 vs NordLayer. Both providers are great for SMEs. There are a lot of features that are extremely useful for corporations when it comes to privacy and online security.

Our top pick for businesses is Perimeter 81. It is geared towards companies of small to medium size and is great for network protection and data security. In terms of usage, there is no way to track whether you are using a VPN. This is great for online privacy. Considering the digital landscape, it is worth investing in Perimeter 81 if you want to protect your business.