Learn all about virtual private networks and how using one can benefit you in your everyday life.
As the digital age trucks on, so too does the need for security. Whether you use Wi-Fi to access your remote work, your favourite entertainment or anything in between, it’s imperative that you take the right steps to keep you and your tech safe. That’s where a VPN comes into play.
A VPN Is…
At its most basic, a VPN is a virtual private network. Here’s what that means:
- By hiding your IP address, a VPN helps you remain anonymous as you surf the web.
- When you connect to a trusted VPN, anything you do online flows through an encrypted tunnel.
- This means that no one can see your IP address as you complete tasks online. Not hackers, not the government, not your internet service provider.
- When connected to the server, your true IP address is hidden and you’re given a new IP address. Other users from the same VPN provider share the same IP address while you’re connected.
- When your VPN is off, you return to the original IP address that traces back to you.
Basically, when connected to a VPN, you’re able to perform the tasks you need online without worrying about things like surveillance and censorship.
The Benefits
Having a VPN to hide your IP address is a major pro in any internet user’s life, whether they realize it or not.
First and foremost, it lets you work around censorship while securely accessing your favourite entertainment the world over. It doesn’t matter where you’re coming from or when you’re attempting access.
You can also encrypt your conversations over the web and on social media. This helps you maintain a level of security around your data and information. They cannot, however, make you 100 per cent anonymous or keep your data encrypted after it leaves their servers. It’s important to be aware of this as often users get a false sense of security. To learn more, check out ConsumersAdvocate.org’s research on VPNs.
Avoid third-party data tracking and spyware with a VPN and you won’t have to worry that your every move is being watched.
Using a virtual private network, you can also scour deals without sites hiking up prices just because of your browsing history and location. Think of online travel agents with special promotions for a selected number of countries. Also, a VPN comes in handy for revenue or e-commerce teams when investigating rate parity issues on foreign IP addresses. I.e. when your hotel is in Indonesia and you’re flagged for disparity on Malaysian point of sale, simply connect your VPN to Malaysia and you’re browser shows your Malaysian search results.
With certain networks, you can even perform speed tests to see how slow or fast your internet is.
Choosing the Right VPN
I’ve been working with a VPN for years, and I firmly believe it’s provided with a lot of value to my life – professionally as well as on a personal level. Above all else, I have wider access to entertainment (think Netflix and Disney+) and a secure set-up at my back and call. Personally, I use ExpressVPN, and I know plenty of others who do too. I pay $99 USD a year, and the service is definitely worth it.
In reality, ExpressVPN is probably the most popular private network service. It works on any laptop or phone setup, and it’s super user friendly. Once you have it downloaded, you simply connect whenever you’re getting ready to use your computer by clicking a single button. You’ll wind up on one of 160 IP addresses within the network and have access to things like split tunnelling and Network Lock.
However, if you are looking for a cheaper option, I would recommend Namecheap VPN. They usually offer a 30-day free trial and after that, the plan renews at only $5,88 USD per month.
At a time when we’re experiencing increased data surveillance and threats to end-to-end encryption, sites like ExpressVPN prove to be a service for the people.
Solidify Your WFH Setup
And just like that, the work from home era is upon us. Insuring your security with the proper tools, accessories and software can simplify your experience, whether you’re working from the dining room table or the balcony. With the help of a reliable VPN provider, you’re one step closer to being the tech superstar you always knew you could be.
Or, at least, you’ll act like one.
