What is a VPN and Why Should I Use One?

What is a VPN and Why Should I Use One?

VPN are commonly recommended by cybersecurity experts as a safe way for you to connect and use public Wi-Fi networks. However, if you have never heard of this term, you may be wondering what VPN stands for, how to use one and where you can find one. Read more to learn all about VPNs and their uses.

What is a VPN?

VPN stands for virtual private networks and it helps to encrypt your data and hide your IP address. By masking your IP address, VPNs allow for your online activities to be untraceable. This works to protect your online identity so that you can use Wi-Fi networks safely and securely. VPNs allow you to have greater privacy than even a secured Wi-Fi network. 

VPNs will mask your browsing history, IP address and location, location, devices and web activity. These are all essential features that can help you and your business stay safe while browsing the web.

How Does a VPN Work?

VPNs work by bouncing your network activity through another server in a different location. This can help make it seem as though you are in another location which allows users to have more online freedom. VPNs also encrypt data that is sent over a Wi-Fi network, meaning that the information is put into a coded, unreadable format which can help prevent others from eavesdropping on your internet activity.   

Why Should You Use a VPN?

1. Privacy and Security on Public Networks:

‍When you are using public Wi-Fi or networks, there is always a chance that someone may be tracking your online activity or trying to access your information. Using a VPN helps to protect you while you are using unsecured or public networks which can help hide and protect your sensitive information. Not only does it protect your online activities but it also helps to keep your browsing habits anonymous.             

2. General Privacy:

Your data is still vulnerable and visible to others even if you are not on a public unsecured network. When you are browsing at home, your internet service provider, apps or government can still access your internet data. This may include information such as when, where and how you browse. This data can then be sold to advertisers or collected by these various agencies. Using a VPN can help prevent these organizations from collecting data on you by obscuring your IP address from them. 

3. Remote Work Security:

Especially if you are working remotely using a VPN can be greatly beneficial in helping to keep your private and sensitive information secure. VPNs have an encryption feature which means that your data will be obscured from others. This is a good investment to ensure that confidential material is kept safe off site.       

How to Choose a VPN?

There are a plethora of VPNs to choose from, so how can you ensure that you are choosing the best one for you? Consider which aspects of a VPN are important to you as well as which boxes the VPN checks off. It may be also important to consider the VPN provider and the level of privacy and support they provide. Although free VPNs are a great option for those with less purchasing power, it may be relevant to consider that they have less to offer in terms of security, bandwidth, servers and support. Be sure to research your VPN providers and look at what they can offer you.            

How Else Can You Stay Safe?

The best way to keep your devices safe is to implement a security system to protect your devices. Here at CyberUnit we offer all types of protection, from mobile to computer protection plans. We offer customized security plans for individuals and businesses, at a price that’s right for you. We can also help you to check if your devices have been compromised. Contact us today to learn more.