What is a Virtual Private Network
A virtual private network, or VPN, is an encrypted connection over the Internet from a device to a network. The encrypted connection helps ensure that sensitive data is safely transmitted. It prevents unauthorized people from eavesdropping on the traffic and allows the user to conduct work remotely. VPN technology is widely used in corporate environments.
Why you Should Use A VPN
If cybersecurity statistics are anything to go by, we should all be worried about the dangers posed by the internet. In 2020, we saw record-breaking data loss to cybersecurity breaches, plus massive cyber attacks on corporations, government agencies, and infrastructure.
While it is a fantastic resource, the internet is littered with malware, cookies, hackers, state-wide censorship, and high-level cybercrime. Given the trends above, now is a better time than ever to ask yourself the question: how can I protect myself online?
Well, VPNs offer a great solution to solve or improve multiple threats that you might encounter online. Whether you’re worried about your security and privacy online or want more online freedom, you could benefit from a VPN.
1. Hide your IP address
One of the most significant advantages of a VPN is that it changes your IP address. This number is automatically assigned to your network and works similarly to a home address. Because websites and governments can see your location from your IP address. So then, you might be unable to access certain blocked pages, due to geographical restrictions (geoblocks).
However, with a VPN like ExpressVPN or NordVPN, you can get around these geoblocks. When you connect to a VPN server in another country, you’re assigned an IP address from that country instead. And essentially, you’re hiding your own IP address and replacing it with a new one.
Cloaked by your new international identity, you’ll be able to browse foreign websites as if you were a local yourself. Also, you’ll avoid leaving a footprint that can be directly linked back to your real identity. However, your new IP address is not an invisibility blanket. But, while you’ll be able to browse with more anonymity. Remember, you should always avoid visiting websites that fall foul of the law.
2. Encrypt your data traffic
A VPN encrypts your data traffic. This prevents hackers and other malicious parties from accessing essential data, like your account credentials and financial information. In addition, you’ll be much safer when you log on to your local Starbucks WiFi.
This is important because there are a lot of risks to using free public Wi-Fi without any safety measures in place. Whether you’re a self-employed entrepreneur or just browsing in a public place. Hence, we always recommend using a VPN when you’re using public internet hotspots.
3. Download files safely and anonymously
Because your IP address is hidden and your connection encrypted. Any third parties will no longer be able to figure out what exactly you’re doing online, nor who you are. Furthermore, they cannot read what is being downloaded through the secure VPN connection. So for those working from home and handling sensitive financial information, this is a beneficial advantage. Privacy and anonymity are guaranteed, or at the very least greatly improved.
However, even with a VPN, it’s crucial to remember the golden rules of using the internet. Don’t download anything you wouldn’t ordinarily download. Here, this means no clicking on suspicious email links or attachments, And no downloading .exe (executable files) from untrustworthy websites.
4. Save money online
Saving money online is one of the lesser-known advantages of a VPN. Prices for shopping online can sometimes differ based on the country you’re visiting from. For example, shopping online from an English IP address could cost you more than somebody who’s using an Indian IP address.
A VPN connection allows you to connect to VPN servers worldwide. Since you can masquerade as a resident of pretty much any country worldwide, this allows you to profit from the best international rates. In many cases, it even allows you to get the same aeroplane flights for a lower price.
5. Stop your ISP from slowing your internet connection
Bandwidth throttling is the deliberate limiting of your bandwidth by your ISP (internet service provider). This essentially decreases your online speed. Some ISPs do this often, and some do it on occasion, while some don’t do it at all.
ISPs may throttle users’ internet connections to decrease the traffic on overloaded servers. Occasionally, ISPs won’t like the fact that a user is downloading great amounts of data, so they might slow their connection to discourage overuse. Sometimes, it’s even done just to get you to buy a more expensive package!
However, when you encrypt your data with a VPN, internet service providers won’t be able to see what you’re doing online, nor will they be able to cut you off.
6. Extra protection from ad trackers and phishing attacks
Some of the bigger and best VPN providers provide extra security. NordVPN, for example, offers a number of extra protection features with its software, including:
- CyberSec: To avoid ads and protect your security from malware, phishing, and other threats.
- Invisibility on LAN: Your computer will be invisible to others on a local area network (LAN).
- Internet kill switch: Should your connection to the VPN server suddenly drop, a kill switch will immediately shut down your internet connection. This ensures that you aren’t suddenly transferring data without the anonymity and enhanced encryption of a VPN.
The benefits of each VPN can vary, so it’s worth comparing the best VPN providers
In Conclusion
What are the benefits of using a VPN? From a basic perspective, VPNs bolster your device’s security and control. A VPN will ensure your data is kept secure, information is remotely accessible, and personal data remains anonymous. While there are some free VPN services the best ones have to be paid for in a subscription. When it comes to your security online a VPN is useful.
Important Note *
Remember that everyone is different, and it is ultimately YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to find what your body responds to. So please do your due diligence before trying anything new, including getting Medical Advice to ensure your safety and peace of mind.
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