- A VPN is a technology that allows you to create a secure and encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the public internet.
- It allows access to geo-restricted content and protects data integrity, making it ideal for remote work, streaming, and maintaining online anonymity.
Virtual Private Network (VPN) connectivity is an essential tool for securing your internet connection and protecting your online privacy. In this blog, we’ll explore what a VPN is, how it works, its benefits, and some common use cases.
What is a VPN
A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, is a technology that allows you to create a secure and encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the public internet. By routing your internet traffic through a dedicated server run by a VPN service, your data becomes encrypted, making it difficult for anyone to intercept or monitor your online activities. This encryption ensures that your sensitive information remains private and secure.
Also read: Are VPN apps safe?
How does a VPN work
When you connect to a VPN, your device establishes a secure tunnel to a server controlled by the VPN service. All of your internet traffic is sent through this tunnel, which encrypts the data before it reaches the server. From there, the data is decrypted and sent out onto the internet. To external observers, all they see is encrypted traffic going to the VPN server, and the true destination of your traffic is obscured.
Also read: Demystifying anti-DDoS VPN: Enhancing cyber security
Benefits of using a VPN
Enhanced privacy: With a VPN, your browsing history and online activities remain confidential.
Data security: Encryption keeps your data safe from prying eyes and cyber threats.
Bypassing restrictions: A VPN can help you access geo-restricted content and services.
Remote access: It enables remote workers to securely access their company’s internal network from anywhere.
Anonymity: A VPN can help maintain your anonymity online by hiding your IP address.
Common use cases for VPN connectivity
Streaming and entertainment: Many people use a VPN to access international streaming services that are not available in their country.
Business and remote work: Companies often require employees to use a VPN to securely connect to the corporate network while working remotely.
Travel: Travellers use VPNs to stay connected and secure when using foreign networks, particularly in countries with strict internet censorship.
Online gaming: Gamers use VPNs to reduce lag and latency by connecting to servers closer to the game’s origin.
Privacy advocates: Individuals concerned about government surveillance and data collection often rely on a VPN to protect their online privacy.
Types of VPNs
Remote access VPNs
These are commonly used by individuals to connect to a private network from a remote location, ensuring secure access to resources on the network. They are ideal for remote workers and those seeking to protect their online privacy and access geo-restricted content.
Site-to-Site VPNs
Also known as router-to-router VPNs, these establish a permanent connection between two or more sites, enabling secure communication between branch offices and data centres. They are typically used by businesses to create a secure and private network across multiple locations.
SSL/TLS VPNs
These utilise Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) or Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocols to provide secure access to web applications and services. They are particularly useful for accessing internal web-based resources without requiring software installation.
