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If you value privacy and security, a virtual private network (VPN) could protect you on both fronts. A VPN is a type of service that creates an encrypted, private connection to the internet that can help protect you online.
Once a little-known networking utility, VPNs are now widely used by businesses and individuals alike. VPNs provide numerous security benefits, not the least of which is the ability to use a public internet connection while remaining private. As a result, any prying eyes can't see your sensitive personal information, such as when you're accessing your bank account or purchasing an item online. Here's how it works.
What Is a VPN?
A VPN allows you to route your internet activity through a secure tunnel to protect your data and identity. A VPN protects your web browsing by encrypting the data you send and receive online. Even if a snooping third party intercepts your data, the data will appear as nonsensical gibberish, essentially rendering it useless. Additionally, the data looks like it was sent from the VPN, not your device, adding an extra layer of privacy.
Users can access a VPN through either hardware or software:
- Hardware VPNs use special equipment to provide VPN protection to all users on the network, while software VPNs are operated on individual devices.
- Software VPNs can be accessed without any additional equipment or technical knowledge. Typically, you just open the program on your device and log in to a VPN service.
What Are the Benefits of a VPN?
VPNs provide you with valuable benefits to secure and improve your online experience:
- Secure connection: VPNs provide secure and anonymous access to the internet. While someone else could theoretically still see your connection, they won't be able to eavesdrop and glean any sensitive information from it like your bank account details or personal information. Since VPNs encrypt the data you send and receive, your internet activity is unreadable to anyone who might manage to see it. Even with this added layer of security, however, you'll still need to take steps to keep your personal information safe.
- Private browning: VPNs create an encrypted tunnel which makes it appear as if your activity is stemming from their server, not your device. As a result, what you do online while connected to your VPN is completely private and anonymous.
- Geographic options: During your internet travels you may have come across messages prohibiting you from accessing content from your region. This issue is common for sporting events in other regions or countries. By connecting to a VPN server in the area, you may gain access to area-specific content.
What Are the Drawbacks of a VPN?
Although VPNs provide some valuable benefits, there are also a few downsides to be aware of:
- VPNs usually cost money: While free VPNs exist, you'll probably need to subscribe for a fee if you want a reputable service with the most secure encryption.
- Potentially slower connection: Encrypting each piece of data you send from your device can slow your connection speed, and if your VPN server is busy, it can add to the lag.
- Websites may block access: Some websites use VPN-blocking software to restrict out-of-region users from accessing their content.
- Connection may drop: Even reliable VPN services experience occasional connection issues. If this happens while you're on the internet, your activity could be compromised.
How to Get a VPN
If you decide to get a VPN, the process is fairly straightforward, and it only takes a few minutes to set up. Get started by following these steps:
- Assess your budget. If cash is a concern, some free VPNs are available, but you may sacrifice security. Some free VPN providers may have inferior servers and weaker encryption, which runs counter to the primary purposes of a VPN—security and privacy. Thankfully, many popular VPN services are quite affordable, with basic one-year plans running around $3 to $8 per month.
- Compare VPN providers. Take your time to read reviews from cybersecurity experts and consumers to get an idea of what you can expect. For example, some VPNs are better than others at maintaining a fast connection speed without sacrificing security and privacy. If your connection suddenly drops, some VPNs will automatically disconnect you from the internet so you won't transmit or receive any data on an unsecure connection.
- Set up your VPN. Once you've selected a VPN provider, it's time to set it up on your devices. Fortunately, most VPN services offer easy-to-use apps that work with the most widely used operating systems. Typically, you'll just need to download the dedicated app and connect to a server in your preferred location, but refer to your VPN's instructions for specifics.
Frequently Asked Questions
While all VPNs aren't created equal, they're generally safe if you use a reputable VPN service. Quality VPNs secure your data while it's being transmitted, helping to block unauthorized access and safeguard against data breaches.
Be aware of some negative issues you could encounter using a free VPN service. For example, some VPN services are infected with malware, track your activity or provide weaker data encryption.
A quality VPN encrypts your data and protects your identity but it can't prevent cookie tracking. Cookies are small information files a website can set in your browser to help them optimize your visits in the future.
For example, Google uses cookies on websites you come across with a "log in using Google" option. These are known as first-party cookies, which are generally used for legitimate reasons on websites you visit. Third-party cookies, however, are often used by advertising and analytics companies to track your online behavior so they can target you with advertisements.
It's worth noting that cookies aren't as threatening to your online security and privacy. They are far less effective at identifying you than your IP address, which VPNs effectively protect.
Prioritize Your Online Privacy and Security
You can never be too safe online, especially if you regularly check your accounts online, work remotely or access sensitive information. Your need for extra security could be even greater if you often use Wi-Fi networks. If you value your privacy and security, a VPN could hide your online activity to help keep you safe from hackers and other unwanted tracking.