VPN stands for ‘Virtual Private Network’. A VPN works by protecting your identity and IP address while browsing the web.
Technical definition of a VPN:
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an arrangement whereby a secure, apparently private network is achieved using encryption over a public network, typically the internet.
A VPN Is Actually A Simple Process
VPN’s work by processing your web browsing data through what is called ‘tunnels’. Think of it this way, without a VPN, you are simply connecting to the internet and browsing the web. Doing so, will not hide your personal information, such as your location and IP address. When you use a VPN, you are connecting to the internet and your personal information is ran through a ‘tunnel’, or middle man, which then hides your personal data and allows you to browse the internet incognito.
When you are not using a VPN, your data can be collected by anyone who has the ability to collect it.
Hiding Your IP Address Is Actually A Good Thing
There are many reasons as to why you want to hide your IP address. Your IP address can tell a hacker, Internet Service Provider or the Government, a lot about you. When you hide your IP address, you almost become invisible online and your activities are unable to be tracked.
Another reason one would want to us a VPN is this. Many countries limit what can be seen on the internet and with a VPN, you are able to choose an IP address that will allow you see that forbidden content. For instance, lets say that you are in China and you want to watch US based Netflix. If you log on to the internet in China, you will be unable to view US Netflix. But, if you use a VPN and choose a server in the United States, you will now have an IP address showing that you are in the US, even though you are in China. Thus, allowing you to view US based Netflix content.
Using A VPN Allows You To Do A Lot Of Things
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Keep your data safe on a public network
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Stream content from anywhere in the world.
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Gain access to blocked websites that are not available in certain areas of the world.
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Avoid censorship rules and regulations.
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Make it so your IP address is not being tracked.
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Get deals! Many websites will change the price of an item or ticket based on your IP address/location. Airline websites do this often. When you use a VPN, you will gain access to better online deals!