What is a VPN & Why Use One?

12.06.23

Blog, General

VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) are becoming an increasingly popular method of securing your internet activity by encrypting your data and creating a “private tunnel” between your device and your data’s destination or by changing your device’s IP address.

IP address: An IP address is a combination of 4 numbers (ex: 121.203.60.3) used to identify your device on the internet and in networks.

Server: A computer used to run a service (such as a website). Your device will make requests to the server to access the service.

When you install VPN software provided by your chosen VPN service provider and activate it, the VPN works by connecting you to a network of servers owned by the provider. These servers serve as an additional layer of security when connecting to the websites you want to access.

Without a VPN, your device directly communicates with the server hosting the website you’re visiting, and the website loads promptly. However, this direct connection poses risks because the website’s server receives certain information about your device. If someone with malicious intent controls this server, they could potentially exploit this information against you.

In contrast, when you use a VPN, your initial request is redirected to the VPN provider’s servers before reaching the server hosting the website you want to visit. This process is then reversed when the requested information is sent back to your device. As a result, the IP address received by the website’s server is changed to that of the VPN server. Consequently, even if a malicious actor were to control the server in the previous example, they would only receive the VPN server’s information and wouldn’t have access to your device’s data.

Additionally, a VPN encrypts the data that originates from your computer. It establishes an “encrypted tunnel” between your device and the VPN server by encoding the data transmitted from your device using robust encryption algorithms. This encrypted data can only be deciphered by the VPN servers, as they possess the decryption key. Similarly, the data you receive from the server can only be decrypted by your device and VPN software, ensuring that only you can access and understand the information exchanged.

Protecting your data:

As mentioned, a VPN encrypts the data transmitted to and from your device. This encryption ensures that even if a hacker intercepts your communication with the VPN server, such as through a Man in the Middle attack, they cannot decipher the intercepted information. This safeguard keeps your sensitive data, such as your personal details, address, or even banking information, secure and protected.
These types of attacks can occur in public places, particularly when you are using public Wi-Fi networks. Using a VPN can enhance your safety and security while using public Wi-Fi networks, mitigating the risks associated with such environments.

Change your IP address:

One of the advantages of using a VPN is the ability to change your IP address. By rerouting your requests through VPN servers, your IP address is altered. This feature offers several benefits to the user.

Firstly, changing your IP address lets you modify your apparent location. VPN service providers have servers in various countries worldwide, and you can select which country you want to connect to. This prevents anyone from tracing your IP address to determine the location of your device and, consequently, your physical whereabouts.

Another advantage is that changing your IP address enables you to access specific services that may be restricted in the country you are currently in. For example, if you are travelling abroad and cannot access a service limited to the UK, using a VPN and connecting to a UK server would grant you access.

Furthermore, altering your IP address offers protection against DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks. In a DDoS attack, an attacker overwhelms your device with requests from multiple sources, causing it to crash or become non-functional. Since the attacker receives the IP address of the VPN server instead of your actual device, the attack is directed at the server. VPN providers typically have robust firewalls to mitigate and bypass such attacks, ensuring your safety and uninterrupted online experience.

You may have seen adverts for VPN services that are completely free and offer the same services as the premium ones. However, it is crucial to consider the following important points before opting for these free services. Firstly, free VPNs generally do not perform as well as their paid counterparts. Paid VPNs typically have more servers and a superior infrastructure, resulting in higher speeds, better overall service, and enhanced security for your traffic and information. In contrast, free VPNs often have limited resources, resulting in slower speeds and bandwidth restrictions. Moreover, they may allocate less budget towards ensuring optimal security for their service.

Another significant aspect to remember is that free VPNs still need to generate income since they do not offer subscription plans. Consequently, they resort to alternative methods for monetisation. One common approach is selling your personal data to third-party companies. This data can encompass information about the websites you visit, your contact details, and more. Additionally, these companies may display targeted advertisements within their VPN apps based on the data they have collected from your VPN usage.
In contrast, paid VPNs operate on a subscription model and do not sell your data to third-party entities. As a result, you can rest assured that your data remains private, and you won’t be subjected to advertisements from the VPN service itself.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, VPNs play a crucial role in safeguarding your digital activities by encrypting data and protecting your IP address. However, it is essential to remember that VPNs should not be considered a complete substitute for basic security measures. It is still necessary to exercise caution by not sharing passwords, refraining from clicking on untrusted links, and avoiding downloads from unfamiliar sources. VPNs are a highly valuable and user-friendly tool that can significantly enhance online safety. Combining VPN usage with responsible online behaviour allows you to enjoy a safer and more secure internet experience.