Why Having a Secure VPN Is So Important

Recently, you might have heard your computer-savvy friends discussing which VPN they are using on their laptops. If you wonder what a VPN is and how it can help you, no worries, it is not as well-known as some other computer-related terms. Below we will look at what VPN means, what it can do, and the importance of having an ultra-secure one.

1. VPN 101

A Virtual Private Network – VPN lets you create a secure connection over the internet to another network. As How to Geek notes, the VPN will connect your smartphone, computer, or tablet to another computer, also known as a server, somewhere on the internet. You can then use that computer’s internet connection to surf the ‘net.

In more technical terms, the VPN will encrypt the data on your device and hide your IP address by sending what you are doing online through a secure chain to the other server.

Initially, VPNs were created to connect businesses over the internet or allow people to access a company’s network from their homes. Interestingly, if your VPN uses a server in another country when you are online, it will look like you are in that country as well.

2. Why Have a VPN?

There are several reasons why having a VPN is a good idea. For instance, according to Forbes, it is an excellent safety and security feature for people who like using public Wi-Fi. While this is a convenient service, the fact remains that paying your bills online while sipping a latte at the local coffee shop could cause you to become a victim of a cybercriminal who is nearby tracking your online activity. Using a VPN while on these networks will hide your browsing history, banking info, passwords, and more from creepy cyber crooks.

A second reason to use a VPN is your internet service provider (ISP). Whichever provider you use can access your internet data, including where you are browsing and when. This info can be sold to other companies, and in the case of a data breach, having your data at companies, you didn’t realize had access to could be especially problematic. The VPN will help keep your IP address hidden from your service provider.

3. A Secure VPN Is Key

You might have seen ads for “free” VPN services and are now wondering if this is a reasonable option to try. Unfortunately, a free VPN service may be more likely to be open to cyber attacks and security breaches; this is because the companies offering this service at no cost will often try to earn back some money by selling your data or sending ads that may be infected with viruses.

To make the VPN experience as safe and secure as possible, it is a good idea to go with a paid VPN service. For example, LifeLock offers a range of secure VPNs with each of their plans; their website has information on the available options and the best LifeLock promo codes that are currently available. The LifeLock plans also include data monitoring services that will send you alerts if your personal information has been compromised in any way online.

4. VPNs: Helpful and Affordable

Now that you know more about what a VPN is and how they work, it is easy to understand why your tech-savvy pals are so excited about them. Keeping your information safe, secure and away from prying eyes are great reasons to invest in a Virtual Private Network.