What is a VPN,Why have a VPN,How does a VPN actually work,How do you get a VPN?YOu need to Know everything.
What is a VPN?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, gives you privacy and security online, unblocks restricted content and allows you to appear to be in another country. It does this by encrypting your internet connection and diverting you via a remote VPN server in order to replace your IP address.
To use a VPN you need to sign up with a VPN provider in order to download the VPN software and get access to their remote servers. There are free and paid options (we look at the drawbacks of free VPN later on).
A VPN does not replace your Internet Service Provider (ISP), as you need internet access in order to use a VPN. You can use a VPN on any network, such as your home, school or work network, or public WiFi and on pretty much any internet-connected device, from smartphones and tablets to Amazon Fire TV and games consoles.
Don’t get confused with business VPN. Although it’s the same technology, a consumer VPN is the not same as the original corporate use, which allowed workers to join the company network from remote locations. Corporate VPN is a separate product and not the subject of this guide.
Why have a VPN?
A VPN keeps your internet activity private and secure. It stops your ISP and the authorities from tracking what you do online. A VPN will allow you to use public WiFi networks securely, safe from hackers. It will also give you unrestricted access to the internet by making it appear you are from another country.
How does a VPN actually work? A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between an internet-connected device, such as a laptop, and a remote VPN server. Data is encoded at one end and decoded at the other, appearing safely as gibberish in between. Onward traffic from the VPN server also assumes its IP address, replacing its original identification.
How do you get a VPN?
Decide your budget and make a list of your requirements Use a VPN review site (like ours) to compare providers Choose a VPN, pick a plan then start the checkout process Make your payment then click the link on the confirmation email Click the downloaded file to install the VPN software Paste in the activation code from your email when prompted Click the big connect button to switch on your VPN
Is a free VPN worth looking at?
A free VPN always comes with a catch. At best, this might be very limited bandwidth, a speed cap or severe restrictions on available server locations. At worst, a free VPN might be riddled with ads or indulge in shady practices with your data. A paid VPN is almost always better.
