We hear a lot these days about a little something called a VPN- but do you really know what it is? Do you really know why you would need it and what benefits it can bring you? I noticed quite a bit of confusion and at times, misinformation in the online community when it comes to VPN so I thought as a sort of public service announcement, I would fill you in on the details. When it comes to VPNs there is a huge range of options out there, but if you want to drill down to the best on offer- be sure to check out these best online reviews!
What is a VPN?
A VPN is a virtual private network and it enables you to have a secure connection to a specific network via the internet- all data is encrypted, private, and safe from prying and nosey eyes. The easiest way of explaining it is by using the analogy of you piggybacking on someone else, to get to a destination.
Why do I need a VPN?
A VPN is the key to your privacy. Whether is it websites using your browsing history to target adverts, or regulations in your country stopping you from accessing certain sites-using a VPN can bypass all of this and allow you to access a range of services that are not currently available to you. A Great example would be- Mrs X is from England originally, she now lives in Canada but wants to be able to catch up with her soap operas from the UK. Some UK sites won’t allow her to watch because she has an IP address that is hosted in Canada. Therefore, by using a VPN she can bypass this restriction and watch her EastEnders in peace.
Another use for a VPN is the example of a student or office worker who needs to access the school or workplace network remotely. With a VPN they can quickly and easily log into this remote network via a VPN and password an access all of their files and data from an outside location. One can also utilise the services of a VPN if you are accessing a public WiFi service and you need to send sensitive information or personal details over the network. By using a VPN you can ensure that your details and information remain private at all times and free from snoopers!
There are other reasons why you might need to use a VPN but some of them, such as downloading films, and streaming TV shows border on illegal in some countries and we would never want to advocate things like that!
What makes a good VPN?
The sign of a good VPN is a solid combination of great features, a good servicer location, and a good price. Some VPN services are meant for constant use and some are designed for occasional use- like streaming a football match or watching the tennis! What VPN works for you, really depends on what you are looking for and what you intend to do with it, and once you have decided that you can really get into the nitty gritty of the technical details.
So, I hope I have managed to clear up a few of your misconceptions and confusions about VPNs- what they are for and why you need them- so what are you waiting for? Go find the VPN for you, and get going!
