Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are tools allowing users of the internet to change their Internet Protocol (IP) addresses and to encrypt traffic. VPNs can help improve online security in a number of different ways.
As the name suggests, VPNs are private networks which encrypt and transmit data while it travels from one place to another. They work by extending a private network across a public network, in this case the internet.
VPNs enable users to send and receive data across shared or public networks as if their computing devices were directly connected to the private network. Applications running on a computing device also benefit from these networks.
VPNs are most often used by corporations to protect sensitive or proprietary data. In addition to corporate use, VPNs are also popular among individuals who want to secure their communications when using public wi-fi hotspots.
By creating a private, encrypted connection between the device and the internet, VPNs protect users’ data from being seen or accessed by anyone other than the VPN provider.
This has a number of specific applications. They are employed to prevent malicious hacking, avoid targeted advertising, or defeating other forms of privacy threats.
VPNs are also used by those engaged in leisure activities which they wish to keep private, such as playing at regulated online casinos.
When choosing a particular VPN, the security features are the most important thing for users to consider, as there is some variability between the products on the market.
Additionally, speed and compatibility are salient factors for those using VPNs for streaming or online gaming.
There are both free and paid VPNs available on the market, but users need to be aware of the capabilities they require in order to meet their goals.