What is a VPN and do you need one? What is a VPN?

What is a VPN and how does it work?

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network and when you turn it on it creates an encrypted tunnel between you and a remote server operated by a VPN service. When you are connected to a VPN, any internet traffic coming from and to your computer is routed through this encrypted tunnel masking your identity and location. All your traffic from your computer will appear to have the IP address of the VPN’s server instead of your own.

So, what does masking your identity using a VPN do for you? It prevents other users or hackers from being able to intercept your ingoing and outgoing data as well as prevents them from redirecting traffic to and from your computer to fake websites that can ultimately collect your personal information.

How do attackers use fake sites and why does a VPN help?

Hackers like to send unsuspecting users to websites that look exactly like real sites. This is a form of DNS hijacking or DNS redirection. These fake sites are sometimes really hard to tell apart from the real sites. Many times, those fake sites look like your own bank website, an online store, or healthcare website that you go to often. This familiarity feels comforting and tricks you into conducting your banking or shopping tasks as normal, all while the bad guys are collecting all your personal information.

The personal information that they can collect from intercepting your outgoing and incoming traffic as well as redirecting you to fake websites are things like your bank account numbers, PINs (Personal Information Numbers), addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, health information, and much more.

VPNs provide a way to create another barrier between your private data and hackers. The encrypted tunnel created by a VPN will not allow anyone to find your identity, location, or actual IP address, which in turn makes it virtually impossible to steal your personal data.

Why is using a VPN essential for your online privacy?

So, now that you know what a VPN is, your next question might be, “Do I really need a VPN?” The answer is a definitive yes — if you value your privacy and want extra protection against data thieves.

Using a VPN is an absolute necessity if you intend to access the internet via public or unknown Wi-Fi networks. If you travel or frequently use public Wi-Fi in cafes, libraries, airports, universities, or even at unfamiliar houses, a VPN provides essential protection.

Public Wi-Fi networks are open for everybody’s use and are notorious hangouts for hackers. It is extremely easy for even beginner hackers to access laptops, tablets, and phones of people using such networks. Therefore, if you must use public Wi-Fi, you must use a VPN.

Should you use a VPN even at home?

Even if you only use your home Wi-Fi network, you should still consider using a VPN. While your home network may be password protected, VPNs add an additional layer of protection.

Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can access a lot of data about your online activity and, in many countries, can sell anonymized data about customers to third parties. A VPN prevents this collection and helps safeguard your privacy.

Can a VPN help you access blocked websites and content?

Yes. VPNs can help you access websites that might not be available in your country. For example, when traveling abroad, users often cannot access accounts like PayPal or Netflix from home. By choosing a VPN server in your home country, you can bypass these restrictions and securely access your accounts.

During international travel, this functionality can also allow you to enjoy streaming content in your own language and stay connected with familiar services without regional limitations.

Why should you consider getting a VPN today?

There are countless ways that using a VPN can protect you and your data while granting you access to otherwise unavailable content. VPN services are relatively inexpensive, and their benefits are extensive — making them an essential tool for digital privacy and online freedom.

At Keys.Discount we have several VPN products to choose from that can get you on the road to securing your data and peace of mind. Click here to visit our Antivirus and Security Store.