VPN: Why You Should Start Using a Virtual Private Network (“VPN”) and How to Choose the Best One for Your Needs.
You may already know what a VPN is. However, chances are you’re not using one. But the fact that you are reading this blog means you really should be! Even if you don’t ‘get it’ right now, at some point in the near future you should seriously consider using a virtual private network for your internet connection.
We’ve noticed a few things about VPN service providers. First, being the “best” is big business for virtual private network providers, and they’ll fight dirty to be one of them. Second, there are so many VPN providers that it’s not easy to choose a really good one. VPNs are not all created equally, and in this blog, we’re going to look at what a VPN is, why you need one, and how to pick the right provider.
Let’s get started.
What Is a VPN?
Basically, a virtual private network is a collection of computers (creating a “hidden network”) connected together over the internet. Businesses use VPNs to connect remote data centres, and individuals can use VPNs to get access to network resources when they’re not physically on the same local area network (“LAN”) – or as a method for securing and encrypting communications when using a public network where there may be some trust issues.
When you connect to a VPN, you usually launch a virtual private network client on your computer (or click a link on a special website), login with your unique ID, and your computer exchanges ‘trusted-keys’ with a server, which could be literally located anywhere in the world. Once both computers have verified each other as authentic, all your internet browsing is effectively encrypted and thus secure from any third party snooping.
A VPN… described.
Here’s a quick, helpful definition… and about all you need to know about a VPN.
- A virtual private network is a service that you sign up for online for a small monthly charge
- Once you have an account, your VPN service should be “on” when you’re online
- A VPN, in action, takes your Internet connection and makes it more secure, helps you stay anonymous and helps you get around blocks and access censored sites.
- The key to a virtual private network is that it lends you a temporary IP address and hides your true IP address from every website or email you connect with
The important thing is that when you access the internet via a VPN it secures your computer’s internet connection; ensures all data sent and received (including your browsing habits) is encrypted and secure from inquisitive eyes.
For much more detail on what VPNs are, how they work, and how they’re used, check out this How Stuff Works article.
What Makes for a Good VPN?
The best VPNs offer a solid balance of features, server location, connectivity protocols, and price. Some are great for occasional use, others are geared towards getting around the location restrictions companies put on their apps and services, and others are targeted at people who do heavy downloading and want a little privacy while they do it. Here’s what you should look for.