VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. A VPN runs in the background while you are using the internet, keeping you safe and protecting your privacy. It’s like having a digital bodyguard who’s always on duty, whether you’re at home, at work, or on public Wi-Fi.
When you use a VPN, it encrypts all of your data from the moment it leaves your device. Your information passes through a safe intermediate stage, known as a VPN server. This server can hide your private information. It can also pretend that you are logging on from elsewhere globally, which allows you to access geo-locked services.
It’s easy to use a VPN on your devices, whether you browse on a phone, tablet, laptop or a PC. Once you’ve configured the VPN, it will run in the background, protecting you 24/7. That’s why it’s an important part of a total online security solution.
Short for Virtual Private Network, a VPN creates a secure connection between you and the internet. It provides you with an extra layer of privacy and anonymity, so you can:
Hide your internet activity and location to avoid being tracked (especially on public WiFi networks)
Freely browse the internet without constraints
Browse safely and anonymously with no speed throttling
You don’t need to be a technical expert to use a VPN either.
Using a VPN hides your real IP address and encrypts your internet connection. Here are a few examples of what that looks like in real life:
Your browsing history is private — A VPN hides your browsing and search history from your Internet Service Provider (ISP). The only thing the ISP can see is your encrypted traffic traveling to the VPN server.
You can change your online location — Your IP address gives away your physical location. With a VPN, you can connect to a server in a different country.
Your internet activities are anonymous — A no-logs VPN ensures that no one knows what you’re doing on the web.
How to choose a VPN
There are thousands of VPN service providers on the market, each offering a different price structure and level of security. To choose the best one, you’ll need to consider a few details, such as:
Price: Most services offer an annual or monthly subscription model. Your subscription will allow you to use a certain number of devices, so make sure you choose the appropriate plan.
Data allowance: Some VPNs will cap your data usage, especially on free or basic plans. If you’re going to stream a movie or listen to music, you might need to look at a premium tier.
Reputation: Your VPN provider has full access to all of your data, so make sure you choose a well-known brand. If in doubt, check online reviews to see how other customers have rated the service.
Servers: VPN providers have a network of servers across the world. The better the servers, the faster your connection. Check the provider’s technical specs before you sign up.
Locations: You can use a VPN to pretend you’re in another country, but only if the VPN host has a server in that country. Check that your host offers a wide range of locations.
Privacy policy: Your VPN potentially has access to all of your data. Check their privacy policy before signing up, and make sure that they don’t log or monitor your sensitive information.
How does a virtual private network (VPN) work?
A VPN extends a corporate network through encrypted connections made over the Internet. Because the traffic is encrypted between the device and the network, traffic remains private as it travels. An employee can work outside the office and still securely connect to the corporate network. Even smartphones and tablets can connect through a VPN.
What is secure remote access?
Secure remote access provides a safe, secure way to connect users and devices remotely to a corporate network. It includes VPN technology that uses strong ways to authenticate the user or device. VPN technology is available to check whether a device meets certain requirements, also called a device’s posture, before it is allowed to connect remotely.
Is VPN traffic encrypted?
Yes, traffic on the virtual network is sent securely by establishing an encrypted connection across the Internet known as a tunnel. VPN traffic from a device such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone is encrypted as it travels through this tunnel. Offsite employees can then use the virtual network to access the corporate network.