How do I Improve my Privacy Online? Understanding Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
One of the biggest questions I get is ‘how can I hide my activity online?’ Hackers, criminals and advertisers LOVE following you around in your digital world, watching you inputting personal details here, revealing hobbies and interests over there and sending confidential data in-between. In the wrong hands, even the most trivial activity can leave you vulnerable to exploitation.
To hide all activity is a long, laborious and almost impossible task, but keeping it private from those who may wish to do you harm can be helped with the use of a VPN.
A Virtual Private Network, often referred to as a VPN, is a technology that creates a safe and encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as public wifi. VPNs were designed to ensure the privacy of users' data and protect it from prying eyes.
How a VPN Works
A VPN works by routing your device’s internet connection through a private server rather than your internet service provider (ISP). This means that when your data is transmitted to the internet, it comes from the VPN rather than your device.
The VPN acts as an intermediary of sorts as you connect to the internet, hiding your IP address – the string of numbers your ISP assigns your device – and protecting your identity. Furthermore, if your data is somehow intercepted, it will be unreadable until it reaches its final destination.
Why Use a VPN?
There are several key reasons why internet users might choose to use a VPN:
1. Online Privacy: A VPN hides your IP address and location, making your online actions virtually untraceable.
2. Secure Connections: VPNs encrypt your data and make it unreadable to outsiders. This is especially important when using public Wi-Fi networks, which are often less secure.
3. Bypass Geographic Restrictions: Some content on the internet is region-specific, meaning it’s only accessible from certain locations. A VPN can mask your location and make it appear as if you're browsing from a different region, allowing you to access this content.
4. Prevent ISP Throttling: Some ISPs limit your bandwidth if they detect certain types of traffic, like streaming services. A VPN prevents your ISP from seeing what type of data you're transferring, thus preventing throttling.
Choosing a VPN
There are many VPNs available, each with different features and capabilities. When choosing a VPN, consider the following:
1. Security Features: Look for features like 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, and a no-logs policy.
2. Server Locations: If you need to appear as if you're in a specific location, make sure the VPN has servers in that country.
3. Speed: A VPN can slow down your internet speed. Check reviews and see if the VPN you're considering is known for having fast speeds.
4. Price: While there are free VPNs, they often have limited capabilities and may sell your data to third parties. Paid VPNs typically offer more features and better security.
I hope I have demystified yet another acronym in the cyber world for you. Reach out to us for recommendations on which VPN provider might be right for you.