VPNs have increased in popularity in recent times, and not without reason. Not only do they provide an additional layer of privacy and security, but also allow you to use the Internet with total freedom.
However, let’s face it – not everyone understands what a VPN can do for them, how it works, and why they should use one. Therefore, this article will attempt to answer all your questions about VPNs in an easy-to-understand manner.
VPN Definition
VPN is the acronym for Virtual Private Networks. It’s a secure, encrypted connection that enables you to access any website or service securely, privately, and anonymously.
What is a VPN tunnel?
When you go online with a VPN, it establishes a connection between your device and the Internet that surrounds your data like a tunnel. Depending on the type of VPN protocol used, the tunnel encapsulates and encrypts data transmitted to and from your device. As a result, nobody can see what you’re up to online – whether it’s your ISP, the government, or advertisers.
Why do you need a VPN?
From secure public Wi-Fi access to enhanced anonymity, there are various benefits you can enjoy by using a VPN. Take a look at these 9 exciting things that you can do with a VPN on your device for a better idea!
What is the difference between VPN and Proxy?
A proxy server serves as an intermediary between your device and the Internet. Since all your traffic is sent through the proxy server, it appears to have originated from its IP address.
With your actual IP address hidden, you can access otherwise unavailable websites and services from your region. However, proxy servers don’t encrypt your traffic, which means cybercriminals can intercept your data.
A VPN, on the other hand, provides all the same benefits of a proxy server but also secures the data you send over the Internet using military-grade encryption. The result? You’re able to browse without the fear of your information getting stolen.
What is the difference between VPN and DNS?
DNS is the acronym for Domain Name System. What it does is translate human-friendly domain names into machine-friendly IP addresses so that browsers can load the website and its content.
By configuring your device to use Google DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or OpenDNS (208.67.222.222 and 208.67.220.220), you can gain access to websites and services restricted by your ISP’s DNS. But, as with a proxy server, it doesn’t securely tunnel your traffic and leaves it exposed to interference by third-parties.
Moreover, changing your DNS settings doesn’t mask your IP address – not all your traffic is routed via the DNS server! If you want to protect your data and remain anonymous online, you need a VPN because it uses both encryption and IP address masking.
What is the difference between VPN and firewall?
A firewall is essentially a shield or barrier that analyzes network traffic and decides whether to block or allow specific traffic based on a predetermined set of rules.
Firewalls can be either software or hardware in nature and act your first line of defense against threats like worms, malware, and Trojans. It’s important to mention though that they only protect your device from unsolicited incoming traffic.
If you want to safeguard the outgoing traffic of your device, you need a VPN. That said, both of these tools complement each other well and provide optimal security on the Internet when used in conjunction.
VPN app vs. VPN extension vs. VPN browser
As far as VPN extensions and VPN browsers are concerned, they only protect the traffic of your web browser. The remainder of your device’s traffic is still visible to ISPs and potential bad guys, which isn’t ideal from a security standpoint.
A VPN app installed on your mobile or computer will encrypt all the traffic from your device, making it a more complete solution to your data protection woes.
How to Get a VPN?
Getting a VPN for your purpose is as simple as 1, 2, and 3. All you have to do is follow the steps mentioned below:
- Get a PureVPN subscription.
- Choose your payment method.
- Browse the borderless Internet with security, privacy, and anonymity!
How to Use a VPN?
Setting up and using a VPN is no rocket science and requires very little expertise. Just follow the steps mentioned below:
- Download and install the PureVPN app on your chosen device.
- Log in using the VPN credentials provided to you through email.
- Select your preferred Mode (Stream, Internet Freedom, Security/Privacy, File-Sharing, or Dedicated IP).
- Connect to any server location.
- Hop on the Internet and you’re set to go!
Haris Shahid
June 20, 2023
6 months ago
Haris Shahid has a genuine passion in covering the latest happenings in the cyber security, privacy, and digital landscape. He likes getting out and about, but mostly ends up spending too much of his time behind a computer keyboard. He tweets at @harisshahid01
I'm Haris Shahid, a cybersecurity and privacy enthusiast with a deep understanding of the digital landscape. My passion lies in covering the latest developments in cybersecurity and privacy, and I've gained extensive knowledge in these domains. I have a keen interest in exploring tools and technologies that enhance online security and privacy, making me well-versed in topics such as Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), encryption, and secure internet practices.
Now, let's delve into the concepts covered in the provided article about VPNs:
VPN Definition:
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a secure and encrypted connection that allows users to access websites and services securely, privately, and anonymously. It creates a protected tunnel between the user's device and the internet, ensuring the confidentiality of transmitted data.
VPN Tunnel:
When using a VPN, a secure connection, often referred to as a tunnel, is established between the user's device and the internet. This tunnel encapsulates and encrypts data, preventing third parties such as ISPs, governments, or advertisers from monitoring online activities.
Why Use a VPN:
The article outlines various benefits of using a VPN, including secure public Wi-Fi access, enhanced anonymity, and protection against data interception. It emphasizes the role of VPNs in providing a secure online experience.
VPN vs. Proxy:
A proxy server acts as an intermediary between the user's device and the internet, hiding the user's IP address. However, unlike VPNs, proxies do not encrypt data, leaving it vulnerable to interception by cybercriminals. VPNs offer the same benefits as proxies but include military-grade encryption for added security.
VPN vs. DNS:
DNS, or Domain Name System, translates human-friendly domain names into machine-friendly IP addresses. While changing DNS settings can provide access to restricted websites, it lacks the security features of a VPN. VPNs not only encrypt data but also mask IP addresses for comprehensive online protection.
VPN vs. Firewall:
A firewall analyzes network traffic and decides whether to allow or block specific traffic based on predefined rules. Firewalls primarily protect against unsolicited incoming traffic, whereas VPNs safeguard both incoming and outgoing traffic. The article suggests that using both VPNs and firewalls together provides optimal internet security.
VPN App vs. VPN Extension vs. VPN Browser:
VPN extensions and browsers protect only web browser traffic, leaving other device traffic exposed. In contrast, a VPN app installed on a device encrypts all traffic, offering a more comprehensive solution for data protection.
How to Get a VPN:
The article recommends PureVPN and outlines three simple steps to acquire a VPN subscription, choose a payment method, and enjoy a secure, private, and anonymous internet experience.
How to Use a VPN:
Setting up and using a VPN is portrayed as straightforward. Users are advised to download and install the PureVPN app, log in using provided credentials, choose a preferred mode, select a server location, and connect.
Haris Shahid, the author, has a genuine passion for covering cybersecurity, privacy, and digital landscape developments, showcasing a commitment to staying informed and sharing knowledge in these fields.
