A straightforward overview of the functions and operation of a VPN

The use of the internet is becoming increasingly prevalent in modern society. It is used for a variety of purposes, including communication on social networks, purchasing goods, watching videos and even online work. It is important to consider the potential risks associated with the unauthorised access to personal information, including passwords, correspondence and bank card details. It is possible for hackers, advertisers and even internet service providers to track your activities. While this may sound alarming, there is a straightforward solution to protect yourself: a VPN.

What is a VPN

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a specialised technology that enables users to access the internet securely. Consider a scenario in which you are walking down the street and your activities are visible to all. Now, consider a scenario where you are protected by an invisible shield, ensuring that your online activities remain private and undiscoverable. This protective measure is referred to as a VPN, or Virtual Private Network.

To illustrate the concept, consider the following analogy. Without a VPN, an email is akin to a postcard: it is visible to all parties along the route, and its contents are accessible to them. However, if a VPN is employed, the email is effectively sealed in an envelope that can only be opened by the intended recipient. This provides a high level of data security.

How does a VPN work

If you use the Internet without a VPN, your data (such as the websites you visit) is sent directly through your ISP. It’s like sending an open postcard: anyone who sees it can read the contents. But when you turn on a VPN, all your data is ‘wrapped’ in a secure ‘envelope’ that no one but a special server can open.

The VPN creates a ‘tunnel’ for you – your data goes through this tunnel, hidden and encrypted, so that no one but you and the site you’re communicating with knows what’s going on inside.

Why do I need a VPN

A VPN is useful for many reasons. Here are some of the main ones:

1. Security. If you use public Wi-Fi in a coffee shop, airport or hotel, hackers can easily intercept your data. A VPN encrypts your information, protecting you from these threats.
2. Privacy. Your internet service provider and even advertisers can track which sites you visit. A VPN hides your online activity, making you invisible.
3. Access to blocked sites. Some websites may not be available in your country. With a VPN, you can ‘move’ to a virtual location in another country and access any content that is blocked in your region.
4. Anonymity. When you use a VPN, your real IP address (the numerical address of your device on the Internet) is hidden and your traffic looks like you’re somewhere else.

What kinds of VPNs are there

There are numerous VPN services that can be classified into two main categories:

1. Free VPN services. While these services are available to all, they do have some drawbacks. These include slower speeds, the display of advertisements, a limited amount of data, and, in some cases, an encryption method that is not the most reliable.
2. Paid VPNs are a viable alternative. They offer a more stable and reliable service. The service offers faster speeds, a greater number of servers from which to choose, and reliable protection free from advertisements.

Where can a VPN be used

A VPN is a valuable tool that can be utilised in a multitude of internet connectivity scenarios. There are a number of scenarios in which the use of a VPN is particularly crucial. One such instance is when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. 

1. When connecting to free Wi-Fi in a coffee house, hotel or airport, it is important to be aware that your data could be at risk of interception by third parties. A VPN encrypts your connection, thereby protecting you from such risks.
2. When travelling abroad: If you are travelling to a country where access to your preferred websites or applications is restricted, a VPN can assist you in circumventing these restrictions and continuing to browse the internet as you would at home.
3. For those working or studying remotely: If you work remotely or study online, a VPN can help protect your important information and provide a secure connection to work or study resources.
4. Ensure the security of your home network: It is important to note that your Internet Service Provider (ISP) may be able to view the websites you visit. A VPN provides privacy and security on any device, including computers, smartphones and smart TVs.

VPNs can be enabled or disabled as required, providing additional protection or access to restricted resources when needed.

Is it worth using a VPN?

Absolutely. If you are concerned about your online security, privacy and freedom, a VPN is an excellent solution. A VPN provides protection for your data from hackers, ensures your activity is hidden from prying eyes, and allows access to any sites that may be blocked in your area.

Utilising a VPN is akin to securing your online premises with a robust lock. It is a straightforward, dependable and indispensable tool in today’s digital landscape.