Updated: 10 May 2025
What is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a technology that creates a safe and encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the public internet. Think of it as a secure tunnel for your data. When you use a VPN, your internet traffic is routed through a remote server run by the VPN provider. This process effectively masks your actual IP address, encrypts your data, and hides your browsing activity from prying eyes.
This means that while you're connected to a VPN, your online actions are anonymised, and the data you send and receive is scrambled, making it unreadable to anyone who might try to intercept it.
What are the benefits of a VPN?
- Enhanced Privacy: Prevents ISPs, websites, and advertisers from tracking your online activities.
- Improved Security: Encrypts your internet traffic, crucial for protecting sensitive information on public Wi-Fi.
- Access Geo-Restricted Content: Connect to servers in different countries to bypass restrictions.
- Bypass Censorship: Access blocked websites and social media platforms in restricted regions.
- Prevent Bandwidth Throttling: Since traffic is encrypted, ISPs can't easily throttle specific activities.
- Secure Online Transactions: Extra layer of security for banking and shopping online.
- Safe Remote Access: Securely access company networks from remote locations.
Five reasons to use a VPN
- Protect Your Privacy Online: Keep browsing habits and personal information private from data collectors.
- Secure Your Connection on Public Wi-Fi: Encrypts your connection against hackers on unsecured networks.
- Access Content From Anywhere: Bypass geo-restrictions when traveling or in restricted regions.
- Work Remotely with Confidence: Secure communications and data transfers for remote work.
- Save Money on Online Purchases: Find better deals by changing your virtual location.
Why hide your IP address?
Your IP address is a unique numerical label that can reveal your approximate location and be used to track your online activities. Hiding it provides:
- Prevent Location Tracking: Stops websites and advertisers from knowing where you are.
- Stop Online Profiling: Makes tracking your browsing habits much more difficult.
- Bypass Geo-Restrictions: Access content blocked in your region.
- Protect Against Harassment: Prevents doxxing and targeted cyberattacks.
- Maintain Anonymity: Essential for journalists, activists, and anyone handling sensitive information.
Top VPN Providers
Our Pick: NordVPN
NordVPN is consistently ranked as one of the leading VPN services globally, known for its robust security features, extensive server network, and excellent performance.
- Strong Security: AES-256 encryption, NordLynx protocol, kill switch, DNS leak protection.
- Threat Protection: Blocks malware, trackers, and intrusive ads.
- Vast Server Network: Thousands of servers in numerous countries.
- Strict No-Logs Policy: Independently audited.
- Specialised Servers: P2P sharing, Double VPN, Onion Over VPN.
Other reputable VPN providers worth considering:
ExpressVPN
Known for high speeds, strong security, and excellent streaming unblocking capabilities.
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Surfshark
Budget-friendly with unlimited simultaneous connections. Great for families.
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Proton VPN
From the ProtonMail team with strong privacy focus. Offers a reputable free tier.
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CyberGhost VPN
User-friendly with specialized servers for streaming, torrenting, and gaming.
Visit WebsiteDisclaimer: We may earn a commission if you purchase a VPN through links on our site. This helps support our work, but our recommendations are based on thorough research.