Just about every major YouTuber, podcast sponsor, or ad has shown you one, but what is VPN? What does VPN stand for? How do VPNs work, and why should you use one? We know that’s a lot of questions, but we’re here to answer all of your burning questions.
So, as we dive into all things VPN, we know you might need other internet-related help along the way. If that is the case, be sure to check out our guides on what is Facebook, what is Skype, what is Trello, and what is Linkedin. We’ve also got a bunch of other helpful how-to’s, such as how to cancel subscriptions on iPhone, how to delete Instagram comments, and more.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about what is VPN?
What is VPN?
A VPN, or ‘Virtual Private Network’, allows you to maintain and establish a protected network connection while using public networks, Wi-Fi hotspots, and your home broadband in real-time. The VPN disguises your online identity, like your IP (internet protocol) address, which in turn masks your online activity and location. It can also enable you to gain access to internet content that was previously unavailable to you.
We know that is a lot of technical jargon, so let us break it down for you further. Your IP address is the unique string of numbers that identifies each computer using the Internet Protocol to communicate over a network. Hiding your IP address makes it much more difficult for third parties to track your online activities and steal your data.
When a VPN disguises your location, the VPN server is acting as proxy. However, we know that one of the most common VPN purposes is to help log into streaming services like Netflix or Paramount Plus, to watch TV shows or movies that your region doesn’t typically have access too. It’s okay, we know watching Peep Show on UK Netflix is too appealing to deny.
Check out our guides on the best iPhone VPNs and the best Android VPNs for help finding the best platform for you.
Do I need a VPN?
Getting hold of a VPN can be useful for just about anyone who uses the internet, but some situations that require it are far more pressing. For example:
- While using public Wi-Fi – sure, it’s great to save some mobile data by hooking up your phone to the coffee shop Wi-Fi, but public hotspots are particularly vulnerable to hacker attacks. If you use a VPN while connected to public Wi-Fi, your online traffic is invisible, so you can browse in full privacy without putting your data at risk
- While traveling – if you want to access your home content while jet-setting off on holiday or popping on a plane for a business trip, you can simply use your VPN to change your location
- While browsing the internet – marketers, service providers, government agencies, and others all jump at the opportunity to track and collect your private data and browsing history. Put a stop to it by hiding your activity through a VPN
- While shopping – a VPN ensures that you keep your credit card details safe, while also allowing you to avoid fake websites, targeted pricing, and other annoying schemes
- While streaming – watch your favorite TV shows anytime, any place, without worrying about region locks or your IPS throttling your connection
- While gaming – VPNs can help you avoid DDoS attacks and bandwidth throttling during gaming sessions
How does a VPN work?
Here’s how a VPN works behind the scenes:
- When you connect to a VPN, it authenticates your device with a VPN server
- The server applies an encryption protocol to all the data you send and receive
- The VPN secures the data as it travels between you and your destination
- To ensure your data always stays secure, the VPN forms an outer packet around it, known as an encrypted encapsulation
- When the data arrives at the server, the server removes the outer packer through a decryption process
Which VPN should I get?
If you’ve decided you want to try out a VPN yourself, we’ve got an entire list of the best mobile VPNs for you to browse, all of which work for PC, too. However, if you’ve not got time to read through it, our time recommendation is ExpressVPN.
That’s all you need to know to answer the question ‘what is VPN?’ Now that you’re safe to get browsing and can access all that region-locked content, be sure to check out our Hulu download and Netflix download guides.