Have you ever thought how using public Wi-Fi can expose you to internet hackers with intentions of getting your personal information? This potential danger is why most people opt to use a VPN for the protection of their identity while surfing the net. So, what is a VPN? How does it work? What is the best VPN available? This article provides you with adequate information on what is VPN.
What is a VPN?
VPN is the acronym for Virtual Private Network, which means a server that makes your public network a private one. A VPN is a safe and secure way of accessing the internet by encoding your data or making it unreadable. Using a VPN makes your device visible in a different local area where your Virtual Private Network server provider is. VPN, therefore, acts as a blockade to your IP address. Through this, your personal information is secure. Some of the vital information that virtual private network protects are internet activities such as, browsing history, hiding your location and IP address. VPNs that are legal work directly with Operating Systems such as macOS, iOS, Android, Windows, among many other Operating Systems.
How does VPN work?
After knowing what is VPN, it is essential to understand how it works. A Virtual Private Network works by routing your mobile phone or computer internet connection via a designated private network server. The VPN makes a pathway that is private to the internet from your phone or computer. This creation of a secret path to the internet is called encryption. Encryption assures the security of your important information.
Encryption makes it necessary to have a key for anyone to access your personal information via the internet. A key is a powerful password that is known by only your device and VPN service provider. Encryption transforms your private data into an unreadable form, and that is why a key is required to decrypt your personal information. Decryption enables the reading of your unreadable data. However, decryption may not be possible for anyone looking to pry into your personal information since the virtual private network masks it and makes your IP address the same as that of your VPN provider.
Which is the best VPN?
There are many types of VPNs provided by different service providers. The major categories include;
Standalones -They use encryption to connect your device to a private network that connects you to the internet. They are best for family use at home and small business.
Browser extensions –These VPNs work as add-ons which can be added on browsers such as Firefox. VPN Browser extensions only protect your data when you are using the browser app and not any other app.
Router VPNs –These are best when you have many devices at one station that need to be protected.
Corporate VPNs-These VPNs are suitable for organisations and companies as it allows remote access to the company’s private data.
The best and most recommended VPN is ExpressVPN. It is a legal and certified VPN for use with any device. ExpressVPN assures you of access to restricted content that you would not access without a Virtual Network Provider. It is easy to use, and the subscription is affordable. The subscription package comes with apps that are easy to use for every device you have. ExpressVPN servers are speedy and ensure you enjoy music, videos, and social sites in more than 150 locations worldwide.
Conclusion
VPNs are necessary if you value your privacy. Critical information such as credit card numbers, pin, passwords, and banking details may be accessible to someone stalking you while you are using the internet. However, be careful as you seek to have a private network since some VPN servers are illegal and may maliciously use your information. Ensure your identity protection by having a legal Virtual Network Provider that will protect your identity and internet activity.