What is a VPN?
A VPN is a Virtual Private Network. Essentially, you can think of it as an enhanced security measure, for the data that you send and receive while you are connected to the VPN.
How does a VPN Work?
VPNs are actually quite complex. But on a simple level, most VPNs provide two core functions – they encrypt the data you transmit for greater security, and they mask your ip address from the servers (such as websites) that you connect to, for greater privacy.
Why should you use a VPN?
Encryption protects your data. On a very simplistic level, you can think of this as converting your data into a coded message. When you were a kid, you may have created coded messages with your friends. If someone were to get ahold of your ‘secret message’ they would not be able to read or understand it, without a special code to translate it back into normal text. Encryption is the same concept, but on a much grander scale. If hackers or other malicious people get ahold of your data, and it’s encrypted, then it is very difficult for them to decrypt and misuse your data.
Masking your ip address prevents the website or other server you are connected to on the internet, from knowing your real ip address – they only see the ip address of the VPN you are using. This also means your ISP (Internet Service Provider) should not know what websites you browse – they will only be able to see that you connected to a VPN.
So, why use a VPN? To secure your data and protect your privacy.
VPN Quick Start Guide
Now you understand the basics of what a VPN is, and why you might want to use one. Next, head on over to the VPN Quick Start Guide to get up and running pronto!