A VPN or a Virtual Private Network can revolutionize the way you use the internet. Many people start using VPNs to get past geo-restrictions on streaming videos, but there are numerous uses for this internet tool, which can improve access to certain sites, increase security, and allow anonymous browsing.
A VPN redirects internet traffic to its own server where it is encrypted. This means the website can’t detect your IP address and may think you are based in another country. VPNs use many servers and switch them so the IP address the VPN use won’t get blocked by the website. Although this may sound like it is bending the rules, VPNs are legal and legitimate. You can pay for a premium service or find a free VPN for iPhone, Android, or pc.
Why Use a VPN at All?
Below you’ll be able to find some of the most common reasons:
Protecting Your Privacy
A VPN shields your IP address from virtual prying eyes. With a VPN, you can browse the web anonymously. Different VPNs offer different levels of protection. High-quality VPNs offer an anti-logging policy, which prevents the service from recording your logging activity.
In addition, a good VPN has a DNS anti-leak policy, which prevents a “leak” of your actual IP address when the website asks for information from a DNS server, which should be the one connected to the VPN. It also prevents not just websites, but web browsers from accessing your actual IP address.
Accessing Restricted Content
Whether you are trying to read an article on a news site that restricts content or stream a movie on Netflix that is available only in certain regions, a VPN is the key to unlocking the web. A VPN masks your IP address, connects to another server, and convinces your site that you are located somewhere else.
However, some sites, such as Netflix, are getting smart about sniffing out VPNs. Developers for VPNs are aware of this and are upgrading their services regularly. To choose a VPN that is most likely to bypass restrictions, look for a VPN that has a high level of encryption, connection to global servers, and connection settings that can be customized.
Maintaining Safe Torrenting
Torrenting is person-to-person or P2P sharing of files. Sharing non-copyrighted material is legal, but this activity can be penalized through a variety of means including blocking, fines, and even lawsuits. Sites that are associated with torrenting have been shut down and are often considered pirating sites.
Even if you torrent non-copyrighted material using legitimate sites, torrenting can slow your computer down dramatically and use up substantial bandwidth. In addition, your ISP can catch you torrenting and throttle your speed or report you for torrenting.
A VPN can disguise your identity from ISPs so your torrenting won’t be traced. The P2P connection for sharing content will be shielded from detection. This will keep you out of trouble for torrenting and can keep your internet from slowing down.
Saving Money on Plane Tickets
Few things fluctuate more quickly than the prices of plane tickets. The deals can change daily or hourly and prices depend on region. Customers located in more affluent countries tend to pay higher prices automatically for plane tickets. If you set your VPN to a less affluent country, the savings can be significant.
Travel sites detect where visitors are located and determine prices accordingly. They spot locations through cookies, mobile tracking, HTML5 code, or IP address. If you have been browsing using the VPN from a lower-income country, the travel site will lower the airfare.
Changing the IP address to the country the airline originates can also translate into significant savings for your trip. Remember to clear cookies when changing your VPN to another country. Choose dates and times carefully to maximize savings.
When to Use a VPN?
It isn’t just a question of what kind of VPN to use, but there may be crucial times when a VPN is essential.
When Traveling
If you travel for business or simply like to get away now and again, a VPN can protect your data wherever you are. Traveling often means having to use public Wifi in cafes, hotels, and airports. This will expose your IP address and can make your data vulnerable to hackers. A VPN is a must for travel, especially if you want to maintain access to content you are accustomed to having in your home country.
When Working Remotely
A VPN safeguards your data when you are connected to a public or semi-public network in a restaurant or cafe. Also, if you need to access confidential and classified documents for work, a VPN boosts security to prevent data from being intercepted. Business owners should encourage their team to use VPNs to protect company information wherever they work.
When privacy is essential
There are times when extra privacy is essential; for instance, when you visit a rival site, have been blocked, or simply want an added security level. Sites will block visitors when there are excessive downloads, screenshots, or other actions from a certain IP address, so disguising your identity may be necessary.
Most computers and devices have some level of protection. These measures can sometimes fail, but a VPN adds an extra layer of security. To feel confident that browsing, history, and data are truly private, a VPN provides peace of mind. The protection levels vary according to the VPN you use, but there are significant security features in a free VPN for android, iPhone, pc, and other devices.
Opening Up the Internet and Boosting Security
A VPN provides the best of both worlds. It opens up the internet and allows the bypassing of geo-restricted content while beefing up security and allowing anonymous browsing. Whether you want to see a series on Netflix or the BBC restricted in your actual area or want to view confidential documents from your mobile device, a VPN can increase your ability to use the internet for any purpose.
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