You’ve probably already heard at least a little bit about VPNs (virtual private networks). These have been increasing in popularity in recent years. You might think of a VPN as a tool to help improve your security and maintain your privacy because that’s exactly what a virtual private network does.

Not many years ago, VPNs were mostly used by businesses to keep their data safe. They were used for employees who traveled or worked from other locations to connect to the company’s network. The security they provided was much needed.

However, in recent years, cybersecurity issues have arisen in the form of malicious attacks from hackers and cybercriminals. Even using the Internet from home may allow these bad actors to steal your personal data.

For these reasons, it’s highly recommended that everyone use a VPN when accessing the Internet.

What Exactly is a VPN?

A virtual private network (VPN) is a way to ensure your Internet connection is kept secure and private. Why is this a concern? Because all of your online activities are tracked these days. They’re tracked, monitored, and even recorded by many organisations, including advertisers and data collection agencies. It doesn’t matter where you’re located in the world.

These groups and organisations can gather the data from your online activities and use it as they’d like. Some sell your data to other companies who want to learn more about you and your browsing history. So, whatever you do online can be opened and viewed by a data collector. And you’re also exposing your device(s) and personal data to cyber threats, even with security implemented via antivirus software.

This is why a VPN is crucial. A VPN works to keep you and your data encrypted. Not only that, but many companies rely on VPNs every day to create more secure connections for staff who work remotely. A VPN greatly enhances the security of companies and the individuals who use them.

The VPN keeps all of your data protected through encryption. It doesn’t matter which website or the level of security of the sites you visit. Your data is encrypted so that no one, not even advertisers, can see where you go online. Encryption simply means the data has been scrambled, which makes it impossible to read. Your data and browsing history are kept safe and secure from prying eyes.

What’s more, a VPN also makes your online presence anonymous. In other words, websites will not be able to track your online activities. They may see some activity, but it can’t be traced directly back to you.

What Is VPN Tunnelling?

Think of the tunnels you’ve been through, which usually go through a mountain or some other type of obstacle. Tunnels make it easier to get around safely, which is just what VPN tunnelling is all about, too.

When using a VPN, it works to create a tunnel between your device and the websites you use. The tunnel is where the encryption happens. No one will be able to trace your activities directly back to you or see what you’re doing online.

What is IP Masking?

VPNs also offer another useful benefit when you’re online, which is IP masking. This is a little more complex, but it works with the tunnelling we covered above.

When you connect to the Internet with a VPN, it creates a tunnel that’s encrypted between your device and the website you’re accessing. However, there are times when your IP address may still be seen by outsiders. It depends on the website. And if this happens, then the VPN loses its usefulness.

However, the key is to choose a very good VPN, which keeps your true IP address hidden and protected. Remember that your IP address is unique to you. If outsiders know your IP address, then your online activities can be traced directly back to you. With the right VPN, however, they are able to replace your IP address with one of their own. What’s more, some VPN services even change the IP address each time you go online.

That means you have a fake IP address with the right VPN. All of your online activity is protected through encryption and IP masking. No one will be able to trace your online activities directly back to you.

Do I Need a VPN?

Well, that depends on whether or not you’d like to keep your personal activities and private data safe online. If so, then a VPN is a great choice. There is one thing to keep in mind. Some people have the mistaken impression that only those who are conducting illegal activities online want to use a VPN. However, that’s simply not the case. While there are some people who do this, the vast majority of people who use a VPN do it to keep themselves and their data safe and secure.

For instance, if you are tired of being hunted across the web by advertisers trying to collect your data, knowing everything about you and your browser history, then a VPN makes complete sense.

VPNs do bring many benefits when you choose the right one:

·    They keep your private data secure

·    Prevent data-throttling (to avoid data caps)

·    Avoid bandwidth-throttling

·    Make it easier to use services in regions that are blocked (for instance, using Netflix in a country where it’s been blocked)

·    Watching regional sports when they’re not available in your country

·    Avoiding censorship when traveling

·    Making it difficult for advertisers and others to follow your online activities

Having a VPN makes sense when you want to keep your personal information and activities safe and private. And it’s always best to use a VPN when on a public WiFi network, as these are not as secure as your home network may be. In that scenario, anyone nearby could intercept your data and steal it. A VPN will enhance your security in this type of situation.

Summing It Up

A VPN is an excellent choice if you’re concerned about keeping your online activities private and protecting your personal information. You’ll enjoy more security, have the ability to change your location (IP masking), and more.