Virtual private networks (VPNs) are networks that are based digitally and allow for information to be protected and stored on their private networks via a public network. Data that is unencrypted is vulnerable to hackers and programs that may sift information from public networks. This includes unencrypted information that is stored on wireless networks.
The number of hackers and schemes continues to be on the rise. People who are unwilling to work for their money means that they will just keep trying to steal the money and information of people who deserve it. Many people choose to use VPNs to protect their data and themselves.
What is a VPN?
A VPN is a virtual private network that allows for an individual to communicate over an unsecured, private, unencrypted network in a unique secured and private way. The majority of VPN tools have their own specific types of encryption they use to secure data that is sent through their network. For example, if an individual is working from home and they send information from their home network to their office, the information they send is likely insecure because they are sending it from their home network. If they sent the information while using a VPN, the information would be secure and protected. Another type of VPN that can be used is a remote access VPN. This type of VPN can be used in any setting and in a plethora of public networks. For instance, if someone was traveling and wanted to send private information while at the airport, they would use a remote access VPN. This type of VPN is able to protect information that is sent between mobile devices to an internet gateway. The VPN is able to secure information that would normally be unsecured to people like hackers and ISPs. Examples of information that can be viewed over a public network include messages, credit card information, browsing history, and downloads.
What Do VPNs Do?
- Provide Security - VPNs are able to fully encrypt web sessions and makes each website visited as secure as a financial site or banking site.
- Compression of Bandwidth - VPNs are able to compress the entirety of traffic on the server prior to sending it to the user. This action will allow the user to have unlimited access to their data.
- Increase Access - Due to restrictions that are imposed by universities, companies, and other institutions, some websites may be restricted. VPNs allow individuals to have unrestricted access to pretty much any site on the internet, while remaining secure.
- Increase Privacy - VPNs are able to disguise the web addresses of individuals and protect the user's identity from others who may be tracking them.
Why are VPNs important?
Personal information is sold and used illegally by hackers. Further, personal information can be used by companies to sell products to individuals. Using the internet without protection may also increase the risk of viruses or data breaches. Ultimately, any internet connection that is unprotected is not safe. Using a VPN ensures that all data is protected and masked. There are many free VPN programs available on the internet. There are also VPNs that charge monthly or annually for their services.
Free VPNs
There are many VPN services which offer free services. The downside to using these free VPNs is that there is usually a limit on the amount of data that can work through them. Typically this is usually around 500 megabytes. This is fine for web surfing, but certainly not for streaming or file transfers. Free VPN services will have the ability to upgrade to a larger tier of service.
Mobile VPNs (iPhone and Android)
Many VPNs work to protect mobile phones like iPhone and Android. Most of the VPNs that also offer products for PC also offer products for people on their mobile devices as well. Some of the best VPN options for people with mobile devices are Expressvpn, VyprVPN, IPVanish, CyberGhost VPN as well as NordVPN.
