What Is a VPN?

A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts connections between devices and servers to mask your IP address. Since your IP address is hidden, your identity, online activity, and location aren’t visible to websites or apps for tracking.

Nowadays, many VPN services include additional security features such as IP leak protection and ad blockers, but a VPN won’t protect you from all cybersecurity threats. A VPN is still a solid start for those looking to enhance their privacy and anonymity online.

Let’s go over how VPNs work, the top reasons to use a VPN, and what online threats a VPN can’t help with.

How do VPNs work?

VPNs are used to mask IP addresses by encrypting the connection between devices and the internet and assigning you a temporary IP address from the VPN service’s server network. An IP address is a unique numerical label that’s used to identify and locate devices. IP addresses are used by websites, apps, hackers, and even your internet service provider to track what you do online. By masking your IP address and location, you can avoid tracking while boosting your anonymity, plus you can bypass censorship and geo-restrictions by connecting to remote servers around the globe.

VPNs scramble your online activity into unreadable code, so hackers or anyone trying to see your activity won’t be able to do so. But it’s important to choose a reliable VPN service with a strict no-logs policy, meaning the VPN won’t log your data.

Why use a VPN?

Nowadays, many websites and apps will collect and monetize your data. Online anonymity and privacy have never been more important—or more difficult to maintain. VPNs add an extra level of security and anonymity to your home network, all while allowing you to bypass geo-restrictions. Here are some of the top reasons to use a VPN:

• Avoid personalized and location-based ads.
• Protect your devices and data when using public Wi-Fi.
• Block tracking and throttling from internet service providers.
• Encrypt and secure your connection and online activity.
• Boost your privacy on websites and apps.
• Mask your IP address for online anonymity.

Are there free VPN services?

Some VPN services offer free plans, but most come with limits to device connections or data usage. While a free VPN might sound tempting, many free VPN services lack the security protocols paid services have and could put your devices and information at risk.

If you do opt for a free VPN, be sure to pick a plan from a reliable and established VPN service, even if it comes with restrictions. 

What won’t a VPN protect you against?

While VPNs boost your online anonymity, there are other virtual threats that VPNs can’t protect against. Always practice online safety and avoid downloading or clicking on suspicious links. Regular virus scans and setting up antivirus software can help protect your devices, and some VPN services will offer antivirus protection as an add-on.

Cookies can still be used to track your online activities while using a VPN, so be sure to clear your cookies and browse on private browsers if you want to block cookie tracking. Logging into any account will also allow your activity to be tracked, so avoid logging into accounts while using a VPN if your goal is true online anonymity.

Is it worth it to sign up for a VPN?

VPN service can cost as little as $2 per month, making it a small price to pay for additional protections for your devices and privacy. Most VPN services offer monthly, yearly, and multi-year plans, but you’ll typically get the cheapest monthly rates with the longest subscriptions. Plus, most VPN services offer a money-back guarantee, so you can try the service and get your money back if you aren’t happy with your plan. A VPN is a great start to enhancing your online privacy and getting past ever-growing geo restrictions, all for just a few dollars per month.