A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a service or technology that creates a secure, encrypted connection between your device (such as a computer, smartphone, or tablet) and the internet. This secure connection is often referred to as a “tunnel,” through which all your online data travels, protecting it from potential eavesdroppers, hackers, or anyone else who might try to intercept your information—especially on public Wi-Fi networks.
How Does a VPN Work?
• When you connect to a VPN, your internet traffic is routed through a remote server operated by the VPN provider, rather than going directly to its destination.
• This process encrypts your data, making it unreadable to anyone who might intercept it, including your Internet Service Provider (ISP), hackers, or government agencies.
• The VPN server assigns you a new IP address, effectively masking your real IP address and location. This helps keep your identity and location private online.
• As a result, websites and online services see the VPN server’s IP address instead of your own, allowing you to appear as if you are browsing from a different location.
Key Benefits of Using a VPN
• Privacy: Your browsing activity, personal data, and online identity are protected from surveillance and tracking.
• Security: Encryption shields your data from hackers, especially on unsecured networks like public Wi-Fi.
• Anonymity: By masking your IP address, a VPN helps keep your online actions anonymous and prevents websites from tracking your location.
• Access: VPNs can help you bypass geographic restrictions or censorship, allowing you to access content that may be blocked in your region.