A Virtual Private Network (abbreviated to VPN) is a means of encrypting your connection to the internet. Instead of connecting directly to the internet from a computer or device, a VPN allows you to encrypt your internet connection by tunneling the data through a network of secure private servers (the VPN). In turn, all the data sent between your computer/device and the internet is keep secure, so hackers or even your ISP cannot snoop or keep records on what you’re doing. It also keeps your IP Address and location hidden when browsing the web.
 
It gives you more control over your internet experience by allowing you to bypass censorship, and gives you an additional layer of security, protection and anonymity. Many companies and government agencies have used VPNs for years, to ensure a secure internet connection when dealing with sensitive information. More recently, VPN’s have entered the main stream, with millions of people using them for personal reasons including increased privacy, anonymity, bypassing censorship, and more.

Here are some of the most Common Reasons to use a VPN

• Secure Your Internet Connection on Open, Insecure Networks.  We’ve all connected to open networks, from Wi-Fi Hotspot found in most McDonalds or Starbucks, Hotel Internet or even a random unsecure network you stumbled upon. However, this is incredibly risky because all the traffic on these open networks can easily be intercepted by a hacker connected to the same network, and with that, they can steal your sensitive information such as usernames, passwords or even credit card information. Using a VPN provider when connected to these open/insecure networks would encrypt all of your internet traffic, protecting both your sensitive information and privacy from hackers snoopers.

• Stay Anonymous and Protect Your Privacy. When using a VPN, you essentially put on a mask when you go online. Everything you do online is encrypted by the VPN, so any third-party (such as a hacker or ISP) trying to steal sensitive information or monitor your online activities will be in for some disappointment. Your Online Identity (IP Address, Location, ISP, etc.) is also keep hidden, so your completely anonyous when browsing the web, using your credit card, file-sharing and much more.

• Bypass Geographic Web Blocks. A few websites and online services may restrict content to specific countries or regions, which can be very troublesome if your traveling aboard or live in a country with no access to the content. A VPN makes it easy to bypass these restrictions, by allowing you to virtually reside in a different country, whether its your home country or any other country. Simply connect to a VPN Server in the country of your choosing and your in. It’s that simple!

• Encrypt Your Entire Internet Connection. A VPN does more than just encrypt your connection to websites on your web browser. Unlike proxies, connecting to a VPN encrypts your entire internet connection, including  web browsers, apps, instant messengers, file sharing, as well as your connection on your phone, tablet, and even Smart TV.

• Bypass Censorship and Throttling. The Internet as we know is, is usually called the World Wide Web. However, for many, it’s not very world wide with governments, organizations, or even internet service providers using censorship to block websites or even throttling certain connects. By connecting to a VPN, you can bypass censorship and limits set by your ISP, Government, Company, or University. Regain access to the World Wide Web, and help ensure network neutrality.

Virtual Private Networks introduce a multitude of benefits from added security, to the ability to bypassing censorship. It is, without a doubt, a tool that everyone should use to their advantage, whether through everyday use, for business or even traveling abroad. Now the question is, which VPN is right for you?

Author information

German Calas

I'm an Internet and Computer Engineer, as well as a lover of all things technology. I love sharing my knowledge, experience and odd sense of humor with others. I have been using VPN's for over seven years; from keeping my sensitive data secure, to watching movies or traveling aboard. During High School, I even created my own Virtual Private Network using one of my remote servers, just to have a little more hands-on knowledge of how it really worked.

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