VPNs the Ultimate protection

A VPN (virtual private network) creates a private network on a public network connection. VPNs are used extensively by businesses to protect their communications between remote offices and with employees in the field. A VPN hides both what you are doing and your computer itself from anyone on the internet or on your network.

You connect to the VPN, not the internet

Virtual private networks sit between you and the internet. Your computer only connects to the VPN and the VPN handles all the communication to and from the internet. Anyone snooping on you can only see that you are connected to a VPN (if even that) and nothing about the sites you are connecting to or data you send or receive. VPNs work on mobile devices as well as laptops and desktops.

How to use a VPN

You’ll need to install a small app on your device. You’ll open that app and connect your computer to the VPN by selecting a region or server. Once connected, the any site on the internet only sees the VPN, not you.

Let me give you an example that will also be helpful in a few minutes when we discuss the cons of using a VPN. Let’s say I’m connecting to my bank from my laptop on a public Wi-Fi network. I open a browser and navigate my bank’s home page to sign in. I enter my username and password. The VPN app installed on my computer encrypts all of this data and sends it to the servers at the VPN company site. The VPN servers then connect to the bank using a secure connection.

Information coming from the bank goes not to my computer, but to the VPN which then communicates with the app on my computer. All of the traffic that is on the internet is completely encrypted. As far as the bank is concerned, it is being contacted by the VPN, not my computer. I am anonymous.

Cons of using a VPN

Using a VPN can protect you from a wide range of cyber-attacks. But they have a few drawbacks as well.

The strength of anonymity is the drawback

VPNs disguise your identity and encrypt your internet traffic. You can also use VPN servers in other countries, making it look as though you are in those countries. VPNs are used by citizens and activists in other countries to bypass strict limitations on the internet imposed by some regimes.

Banks don’t like this anonymity. Neither will any of your online accounts. They will not recognize your computer and they will not be able to read any cookies that authenticate you as a valid user. When you use a VPN, you should expect to have to sign in and verify your identity with your online accounts.

VPNs can slow you down

The extra steps required to encrypt and route your traffic through a VPN will slow you down somewhat. Pick a VPN service with a good reputation for speed and overall service. You can easily search for VPN reviews and look for the features you need.

VPNs require a subscription

A fast reliable VPN will require a monthly subscription. There are normally deals available that start at around $2 or $3 a month if purchased on an annual or 2-year plan.