Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) reroute your internet connection through a third-party server, allowing you to mask your identity while you browse. This is important from a privacy standpoint and also from a security standpoint. VPN can be helpful with both things, among others, as we will see below.
Improved Security
The prevalence of cyberattacks is increasing, so we must all do our part to protect ourselves when browsing online. This is especially the case when browsing on public WiFi networks. This type of network is vulnerable to being hijacked.
However, with a VPN, since your identity is masked while browsing with one, you are protected from having your internet connection hijacked. This type of attack could result in compromised personal data or even your computer being infected with a virus.
Improved Privacy
Did you know that while browsing, your data can be viewed by your internet service provider (ISP)? That’s right, your ISP can see every single website that you have ever visited.
This can be prevented by using a VPN since with a VPN, your connection is routed securely through a third-party server which might even be in a different country to you.
While connected to a VPN, your ISP can only tell that you’re connected to the internet, but they won’t be able to tell what you’re doing while connected. Some ISPs also try to limit the streaming activities of their customers. By connecting to a VPN, your ISP won’t be able to tell that you’re streaming and you’ll be able to stream without having your connection throttled.
Bypass Geographical Restrictions
Some online content libraries are restricted to certain geographic regions. However, this is inconvenient for paying customers who may be away from their home country.
With a VPN, the possibility exists of connecting to a VPN server in a country where the streaming of the content library you want access to is allowed. For example, the US Netflix library is different from the Germany Netflix library.
If you were on vacation in Germany but wanted to have access to the US Netflix library, you could achieve this by connecting to a US VPN server.
Bypass Censorship
In some countries, like China, access to certain websites and services is restricted. For example, Facebook is banned in China. However, with the right VPN, these restrictions can be bypassed since a VPN allows you to route your connection through a server in a different country. The ability to bypass censorship generally allows for more freedom of expression and more options when online.
Which VPN Service Should I Get
In general, it’s better to go with a paid VPN service. However, there are some decent free VPN services out there like Proton VPN. Some of the best-paid VPN services include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and CyberGhost.
Final Thoughts
VPNs are useful tools that can help you to protect your privacy, secure your internet connection while you’re online, help you to bypass censorship, allow you to bypass geographic restrictions, and keep your connection private. Consider getting one to improve your online experience.
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