A VPN, or virtual private network, is a tool that protects your data from being seen by third parties when you are using the internet. When you are connected to a VPN, your data flow is encrypted, giving you privacy and security while surfing the web.
In fact, privacy and security are not the only benefits to using a VPN. Read on to find out why you should install a free VPN today.
Firstly, how do VPNs work?
A VPN hides your IP address from anyone who might be trying to track your internet activity. Your IP is the unique number assigned to the device you are using. Think of it like a home address – this is not something you want to be easily viewed. However, a VPN will route your internet connection through an encrypted tunnel, protecting your data and providing an extra layer of security.
It works as a filter, scrambling all your data into gibberish, making it difficult for your ISP (internet service provider) and third parties to see which websites you visit or the data you send and receive. It’s true that your ISP tracks your online activity and allows companies to see your browsing history. The U.S. government mandates that ISPs keep records of customers’ internet history for at least 90 days. If you don’t want your internet service provider to have access to your internet history, then installing a VPN is a great move.
VPNs will also protect sensitive data, such as passwords and online banking details, from being exposed. They are especially useful when travelling abroad, where you are likely to connect to unsecure public Wi-Fi. You can also secure the communication between your device and another through IPsec (Internet Protocol Security) which is used in VPNs.
Reasons to install a VPN
Protection
This is the obvious one. When you use a VPN you don’t have to worry about your data or sensitive information from being stolen. You are at the highest risk when you connect to a Wi-Fi on a public network. Emails, passwords, banking information are exposed on a public network and malicious hackers can install unauthorised software onto your device. But you don’t have to stop using public Wi-Fi or stop working at your favourite cafe – a VPN will encrypt your data and prevent this from happening.
Become anonymous
While using the internet, it’s beneficial to remain as anonymous as possible. Hackers want to gain your information to sell it on the dark web. By using a VPN, they won’t be able to identify you or steal your data. You can achieve total online anonymity by installing a VPN and masking your IP address against not only hackers, but also government surveillance.
Access restricted content
This is recognised as one of the biggest benefits of using a VPN. Most streaming services lock their content to specific regions – this is known as geo-blocking . This is because they only have permission to stream certain shows or movies in certain countries due to licensing permissions. You can use a VPN to bypass these restrictions by accessing a server in the region of your choice and enjoy unlimited content.
Bypass blocked websites
Many governments restrict access to certain websites on the web, such as Russia’s social media crackdown, or prevent access to gambling sites for religious and moral reasons. On the other hand, a website could be blocked in your country simply because you are outside of the host country. VPNs hide your IP address, which identifies which country you are connecting to the internet from. This means you can step around any blocked content and access anything from new articles to online shopping.
Marketing
Unfortunately for many ISPs, your browsing history is a revenue stream. Marketing agencies will pay ISPs to sell their users information and they in turn will be able to see what websites you like to visit and what your browsing habits are. This gives them a good idea of what they can sell to you – you might notice after you have searched for something on the web that you are suddenly seeing adverts for similar products across your social media! You can prevent marketing agencies from sending you this targeted content by installing a VPN and hiding your browsing activity.
Remote access
With more and more businesses operating a hybrid workplace or employees working fully from home, it’s important to consider a secure network when transferring important company data. There is a higher likelihood of company data being stolen with more people working from home and unrestricted access to sensitive company and customer information may prove disastrous. A thunder vpn for pc provides security through connecting to a private network and using encryption methods to reduce the risk of data leakage.
Better safe than sorry
The bottom line is a VPN can provide you with the privacy, security, and freedom to surf the web without any worries. You can be rest assured that your internet connection is secure while your IP address is masked from prying eyes. Any data or sensitive information for both personal and business use is protected, with the VPN encrypting your data and preventing your activity from being surveilled. You can also enjoy freely accessing content and services that may be restricted in your country and bypass geo-blocking
Taylor is a freelance SEO copywriter and blogger. His areas of expertise include technology, pop culture, and marketing.
