VPN is an acronym you've probably heard before, but do you know exactly what it stands for and how it can impact your online activities? We will clearly explain how VPN works, its purposes, and the advantages and disadvantages it brings. You'll learn how VPN protects your privacy, allows access to blocked content, and what types of VPN exist.
The term VPN has been heard by almost everyone who has been on the internet for a while. However, few know exactly how it works and what purposes it serves. Most people consider VPN to be a way to erase their internet footprint, while others see it as a gateway to foreign content that is not available in their region.
Despite its many benefits, this service also has its downsides, which can significantly affect inexperienced users, such as a decrease in the quality of the internet connection. Interested in learning more about VPN? We have a comprehensive guide on VPN and tips on how to start using this connection.
First and foremost, let's look at what is behind the abbreviation VPN. Specifically, it stands for Virtual Private Network, which itself summarizes its purpose. VPN is designed to protect the privacy and security of the user while online. When using the service, the user can partially hide their internet footprint and the real IP address of the device used.
An average user in the Czech Republic can change their location from Prague to Paris with just a few clicks. This feature is widely used in countries with strict censorship, as well as for content that is available only in certain countries – this is typically seen with streaming services like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video.
Note: An IP address is a unique identification number assigned to a device connected to the internet. It allows the device to communicate with the internet network.
Now that you understand what a VPN is, we can delve deeper into its functions. The basic concept of the service is based on data encryption, which ensures privacy and security for users. Standard VPN services operate on a simple principle: a user downloads the provider’s app onto their device, logs into their account, chooses the IP address location, and connects.
The service can also be available as a browser extension or even as a VPN router. Upon activation, a VPN creates a virtual tunnel between the device and VPN servers. Through this tunnel, all data is sent, processed by the VPN server, and forwarded to the public internet. The same process is applied to data sent back to your device.
This way, a highly secure and anonymous environment is created through which you can send sensitive data. However, it would be naive to believe that the connection is completely anonymous. In most cases, it's possible to trace your online activities, even when using the best VPN. Finding the data will be significantly more challenging, requires a lot of effort, and will almost never be complete.
To better understand, let's summarize what VPN can be used for:
Commonly, you can encounter several types of VPNs, each designed for different purposes and offering varying levels of security. All of them will be discussed in detail below.
Site-to-Site VPN, also known as Router-to-Router VPN, is used to connect two or more geographically separate networks into a single extensive network. It is typically utilized by companies, corporations, or various organizations that need to create a secure and encrypted network between individual branches. VPN routers or concentrators are used for this connection.
Remote Access VPN allows individual users to connect to corporate or other networks from anywhere they choose. The VPN’s task here is to create an encrypted connection between the user’s device and the corporate network, allowing secure access to corporate data or applications.
Cloud VPN is designed to protect data transferred to the cloud. During file transfers, users do not need to worry about data loss, theft, or intentional damage. This type of VPN is again mainly used by companies or creators who need to protect their data from hackers or competition.
VPNs can also be divided based on the protocols used, which differ in their security, speed and connection stability, encryption level, and reliability. Currently, you can encounter six protocols, specifically:
TIP: If you plan to use VPN on a daily basis across multiple devices, a VPN router will be the best solution for you. It already has VPN built-in, which is utilized by all connected devices.
Now that we've thoroughly explained what a VPN is and what it's for, we can move on to its practical uses. Generally speaking, a VPN service is appreciated by any user who cares about their privacy and security in the online environment. However, it is most commonly used for:
Besides the advantages, even the best VPNs have minor downsides. The biggest one is the possible impact on your internet connection. You may mainly encounter speed slowdowns or even outages. Generally, the more distant the VPN server, the slower the connection speed.
Your connection quality can also pose a problem. If you frequently struggle with very slow internet, connecting to a VPN won't be very comfortable for you. However, for occasional watching of series or short web browsing, it will suffice.
Other factors also determine the speed and stability of the connection, including the provider's quality, the protocol used, and the load on the chosen server. Also, watch out for your device's performance. Especially for older laptops and smartphones, connecting through a VPN can be too demanding, affecting not only the speed of the internet connection but also the device's response time.
Although VPN is a relatively complex technology based on data encryption, ordinary users can suffice with the fact that the service helps secure their data, protects them from hacker attacks, and hides their real IP address.
When choosing the best VPN, you should match it to your needs and expectations – in this regard, pay particular attention to the type of protocol chosen. The effectiveness of VPN also depends on the quality of your connection. If you suspect that your internet is slow, you can verify its speed using our online tool.Children's safety on the internet is largely the responsibility of parents. Therefore, we have prepared a comprehensive guide to protecting children online. You'll learn how to communicate openly with them about risks, set boundaries, and protect their privacy.
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