{"id":481,"date":"2023-04-12T06:27:39","date_gmt":"2023-04-12T06:27:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/?p=481"},"modified":"2023-07-14T06:26:03","modified_gmt":"2023-07-14T06:26:03","slug":"what-is-a-vpn","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/articles\/what-is-a-vpn\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is a VPN? Everything You Need To Know About Online Privacy"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>If you\u2019re concerned about your online privacy or just looking for a way to browse the internet anonymously, chances are you\u2019ve already heard the term VPN. But <strong>what is a VPN, and how does it help you?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>VPN stands for a virtual private network<\/strong>, a service that <strong>encrypts your internet traffic<\/strong> and routes it through a server in a different location. A VPN client makes it appear as if you\u2019re browsing from another location by creating a point-to-point tunnel between your computer and a VPN server. This tunnel hides your traffic from outsiders and conceals your real IP address. A <strong>VPN can help you access geo-blocked content<\/strong>, and it\u2019s an excellent tool for protecting your online identity.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many factors to consider when choosing the right VPN. This article will help you <strong>understand how VPN clients work and what to look for when choosing one<\/strong> for yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hide Your Tracks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Whenever we go online, <strong>we leave a digital trail behind<\/strong>. <a href=\"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/articles\/what-is-a-digital-footprint\/\">Data compiled is called a digital footprint<\/a>, and it poses a significant danger to our online security.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From the moment we try and connect to a website, our internet service provider receives the request and redirects us to the destination. When using a VPN protection, our request is rerouted, so it goes through a VPN server first. Once you establish the connection, <strong>your real IP address is replaced<\/strong> with the VPN\u2019s IP address.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All the data passing through an established VPN connection is encoded and appears as gibberish to any entity that tries to monitor it. Companies and websites have a harder time tracking your online activities and can\u2019t access any of your relevant information.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>VPNs can be useful for hiding your activity from curious eyes or when accessing content that is blocked in your location. Even <strong>ISPs cannot track your activity<\/strong>; they can see that you&#8217;re using a VPN, but not the content of your network connection. In essence, VPN stands for near-complete anonymity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most <strong>VPN services use a 256-bit advanced encryption standard<\/strong>, the same encryption that was originally developed for the needs of the US government. It is the most secure encryption there is, making it extremely unlikely for anyone to hack your connection. 256-bit encryption is also less prone to hacking by brute force compared to other key ciphers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A VPN <\/strong>is also commonly <strong>used to bypass <a href=\"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/articles\/what-is-internet-censorship\/\">internet censorship and restrictions<\/a><\/strong>. The encrypted connection allows you access to websites and content that might otherwise be blocked from your geolocation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Apart from keeping your information safe, avoiding online restrictions is one of the primary reasons people use a network connection with a VPN. Most VPNs are easy to set up and use and don\u2019t require extensive technological knowledge. Once you have it installed on your device, <strong>using a VPN can be as simple as turning it on and off<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, even with the use of a VPN no one is completely anonymous, <a href=\"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/guides\/can-vpns-be-tracked\/\">as there are still multiple methods through which actors can divulge your location or identity<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Inner Workings of a VPN<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Not all VPNs are created equal, and there are many elements to consider before purchasing the perfect one for yourself. With such a diversity of choices, it could be overwhelming to make the decision. Let\u2019s look at some <strong>differences among VPNs<\/strong> and what they mean.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Encryption Protocols<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>VPNs use a variety of security protocols to ensure that data is securely transmitted between the VPN client and a server. The term encryption protocol refers to the way data is packaged and sent online.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s say you decide to go skydiving. Regardless of your previous experience, you will still wear a jumpsuit, goggles, and a helmet to ensure your safety. The better the protective equipment quality, the better the protection itself. A VPN technology uses an <strong>encryption protocol that works similarly to protective equipment<\/strong>. It puts a fictitious helmet on the information you\u2019re sending online and, in doing so, keeps it safe. Once encrypted, no one can snoop around and collect information about your activities.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are different types of <a href=\"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/guides\/vpn-protocol\/\">VPN encryption protocols<\/a> that are often in use. Some common ones are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>IP Security (IPSec)<\/strong>: This is a set of protocols that provide data confidentiality, integrity, and authentication, thus increasing the VPN protection.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/guides\/what-is-l2tp\/\"><strong>Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP)<\/strong><\/a>: It\u2019s often used with IPSec to add an extra layer of security. It can also be used on its own to create a VPN connection.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/guides\/what-is-openvpn\/\"><strong>OpenVPN<\/strong><\/a>: This open-source software uses SSL\/TLS protocols to create a secure VPN connection. OpenVPN operates over a dependable transport layer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/guides\/what-is-pptp\/\"><strong>Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP)<\/strong><\/a>: This is an older VPN protection protocol that is not as secure as other options, but it is fast and easy to set up. PPTP offers a lot of computable power, making it a good choice for older devices or audio and video streaming.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>WireGuard<\/strong>: This new, open-source VPN protocol promises to be faster and more secure than other options.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Types of VPNs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>There are different VPNs<\/strong>, each with its own set of features and benefits. We\u2019ll look into some commonly used types and briefly discuss their pros and cons.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Remote-access VPNs<\/strong> allow individuals to connect to a corporate network from a remote location. They are perfect for employees who need to work from home or on the go. <a href=\"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/articles\/remote-access-vpn\/\"><strong>Remote-access VPNs allow you to connect to your company\u2019s network<\/strong><\/a> and access resources that might be unavailable when you&#8217;re away from the office.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/articles\/what-is-a-site-to-site-vpn\/\"><strong>Site-to-site VPNs<\/strong> will let users connect two or more office locations<\/a> together, allowing employees to share data and resources with the help of a VPN internet connection. This can be useful for companies with multiple offices or for contractors who need to access files and applications from their home office while away. A site-to-site VPN is set up in much the same way as a remote-access VPN.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A virtual private dial-up network (VPDN) is a type of VPN that uses a public network to provide individuals with secure access to a private network through a VPN. VPNs are often used by companies that employ remote workers. They can also be used to <strong>connect branch offices to a company\u2019s main network<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/trinity-core.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com\/dataprot\/assets\/62860931a55a3.jpg\" alt=\"open laptop\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Benefits and User Privacy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>VPNs are becoming increasingly necessary for keeping your online presence private. This is especially important when using a public WiFi network, as these networks can be a hotbed for hackers looking to steal personal information.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Public WiFi connections are almost impossible to avoid as we spend so much time online. The <strong>purpose of a VPN is to make our virtual worlds safe<\/strong>, and choosing the right VPN client helps by hiding the connection data from any surveillance attempts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The work of a VPN provider doesn\u2019t stop there. <strong>A good VPN will help unblock <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/articles\/what-is-geo-blocking\/\"><strong>geo-restricted content<\/strong><\/a> such as streaming services and websites. Large companies usually carve up access to their licensed content into geographic regions, making watching a show in one country easy while impossible in another.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With VPN clients, <strong>users can connect to a server in another country<\/strong>, bypass restrictions, and access the content freely. Let\u2019s say you want to watch the latest adventures in <em>Supernatural<\/em> on Netflix. If you live in the US, you can do so effortlessly. However, users from any other region won\u2019t have access to this TV show without a computer VPN.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Apart from entertainment, a VPN service offers privacy that the average person probably doesn\u2019t think twice about. <strong>Our virtual world <\/strong>with all its searches, downloaded files, and emails <strong>is out in the open<\/strong>, available for our internet service provider to peruse.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>An ISP can collect this information<\/strong>, sell it to third parties, or use it for targeted advertising. ISP services also have to comply with requests from government agencies and deliver data on users\u2019 activity. A <strong>VPN protects your data by encrypting all internet traffic<\/strong>, ensuring that your ISP can\u2019t see what you\u2019re doing online, so many use VPN for internet privacy. It means your ISP can\u2019t sell your data to advertisers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The virtual private network can prevent identity theft<\/strong> by encrypting your personal information such as your name, address, and credit card number.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, a <strong>VPN can help prevent <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.oecd.org\/competition\/price-discrimination.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>price discrimination<\/strong><\/a>, a system by which companies charge different prices to different users, usually based on users\u2019 location or browsing habits. By hiding your location and IP address, a VPN\u2019s purpose is to help prevent higher charges for the same product or service. It\u2019s another helpful VPN client application that users often forget about.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">VPN Drawbacks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are some drawbacks to using a VPN too. As all the data must be encrypted and routed through the VPN server, you\u2019re likely to experience some slowdown compared to an unfiltered connection. This slowdown will largely depend on the VPN protocol you use; as a rule, <strong>the more protection<\/strong> a protocol provides, <strong>the heavier the toll on the bandwidth<\/strong> will be. It\u2019s best to try and define which VPN protocol doesn\u2019t put too much strain on your connection before the purchase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Some countries block or somehow regulate VPNs<\/strong>, making it impossible or unlawful to connect to a server in that country. When you visit a site via the VPN server, the site regulators and agencies can\u2019t see your IP address, but they can quickly check if you\u2019re using a VPN and prevent internet access. However, s<a href=\"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/articles\/what-are-obfuscated-servers\/\">ome VPN providers employ obfuscation technology<\/a> which prevents target websites or ISPs from detecting VPN use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Restrictions may apply for different reasons, depending on the country. VPNs are commonly restricted to censor media, respect copyright laws, or limit inappropriate content.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>VPNs can\u2019t always provide complete anonymity<\/strong> as they still have to route traffic through an intermediary server. This server can keep logs of user activity through a VPN connection, meaning that your data wouldn\u2019t be completely private. However, <a href=\"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/articles\/no-log-vpn\/\">most VPN providers employ a no-logs policy<\/a>, a written promise that any data gathered on their servers is immediately deleted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Site cookies are also a potential issue<\/strong>, as they can track you across the internet. While some VPN providers promise to block cookies by encrypting them, this is not always effective. And despite being mostly harmless, cookies can take away the vestige of users\u2019 anonymity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another thing worth noting is that VPNs cannot protect internet users from targeted virus or malware attacks. While <strong>VPN technology<\/strong> will encrypt and reroute traffic, it <strong>can\u2019t protect you from malicious software installed on your device<\/strong>. It is best to use a dedicated online security app and a VPN tunnel connection, like antivirus, anti-malware, or anti-ransomware apps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A VPN is a great tool that betters online access and privacy, but it\u2019s not a magical solution. This is why it\u2019s important to understand the limitations of a VPN before using one. However, it is still the best tool we have to stay safe online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/trinity-core.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com\/dataprot\/assets\/628609038a6c9.jpg\" alt=\"woman frowning at a laptop\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Choosing the Right VPN<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For internet users who might still wonder, \u201cwhat is a VPN?\u201d selecting one to use can be challenging. With <strong>so many good VPN providers available<\/strong>, getting overwhelmed is easy. Here\u2019s our rundown of vital information to consider when choosing a provider for yourself.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trustworthy Client and Company<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>First, make sure that the <strong>VPN client<\/strong> is reputable and <strong>has a good track record<\/strong>. There are a lot of fly-by-night operations out there, and you don\u2019t want to end up on the wrong side of the law.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by <strong>checking the reviews of a specific VPN client <\/strong>from reliable sources. Sites like Trustpilot are a good starting point to see the consensus on VPN service privacy. Checking the company\u2019s previous business practices via the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bbb.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Better Business Bureau<\/a> and LinkedIn should be your next step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">VPN Server\u2019s Coverage and Speed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>An excellent VPN provider usually has robust network settings, decent speed, and a user-friendly interface.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s best if <strong>the VPN service provider has servers in multiple regions<\/strong>, as this makes it easier for you to always find a fast and reliable connection. When selecting a VPN server close to your location, you can expect the highest speeds, which is something to pay attention to when choosing a VPN for home. That bandwidth performance will deteriorate as you connect to a more remote VPN server.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The number of offered servers also significantly impacts the internet connection quality. VPN providers with few servers will experience speed bottlenecks when too many users try to connect. As a result, everyone will have a much slower internet connection. When choosing a service, <strong>seek out clients that have over 1,000 VPN servers<\/strong> for the fastest browsing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Geo-blocking is also directly dependent on the number of available servers. <strong>A specific VPN server can get blacklisted by the streaming site<\/strong>, which is a common practice Netflix employs to prevent VPN usage. Users who connect to the blocked server won\u2019t be able to access the geo-blocked sites and content.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">User Experience<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>After searching high and low for a suitable VPN solution, the last thing you\u2019d want is to end up frustrated by an overly complicated interface. It is paramount to <strong>find a VPN client that is easy to use<\/strong>. Popular VPN services understand the importance of offering a streamlined and intuitive user interface that allows IT beginners and professionals alike to quickly locate the VPN features they need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">No-Logs Policy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A reliable VPN provider should always respect your privacy. That is why you need to ensure that the company has a strict no-logs policy regarding VPN privacy. This entails that the <strong>VPN client shouldn\u2019t keep any logs of user activity<\/strong> that may include web browsing history, metadata, and traffic destination.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Some data is collected for essential purposes<\/strong>, like billing information and server performance monitoring, and it goes against the purpose of VPN. Even so, this type of data is not connected to your identity or activities. A VPN service without a no-logs policy could gather a considerable amount of data on its servers until it gets a request from government agencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">System Compatibility&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most people use their VPN on a desktop computer, so it\u2019s essential to <strong>check if the provider has a client for Windows or Mac<\/strong> and choose accordingly. Depending on your surfing habits, you might want to consider installing a VPN on your mobile phone. You never know when you\u2019ll need to connect to a public WiFi network while on the go, so look into <strong>providers that also support iOS and Android<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">14 Eyes Surveillance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The true meaning of <strong>VPN protection is often blurred by government surveillance<\/strong>. Where your VPN provider of choice comes from could affect the level of anonymity you\u2019ll enjoy.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consider checking whether your VPN client originates from <a href=\"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/guides\/14-eyes\/\">one of the<strong> 14 Eyes countries<\/strong><\/a>. This group of governments has extensive information-sharing agreements, allowing each nation to track its citizens, even when they are using a VPN.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Data surveillance can be considered <strong>a matter of national security<\/strong>, so collecting information on citizens is often done without any legal repercussions. VPN clients from these countries collect users\u2019 browsing history and distribute it to government agencies of their user\u2019s country of origin upon request. You must admit that these arrangements collide with the purpose of VPN.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even if the VPN client doesn\u2019t belong to one of the signatory countries, one or more of their <a href=\"https:\/\/dataprot.net\/guides\/vpn-servers-server-locations\/\">physical VPN servers<\/a> might, thus still allowing agencies to request the extradition of server data.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are looking for more serious VPN protection, it\u2019s best to <strong>steer clear of a VPN service located in one of the 14 Eyes countries<\/strong>, then check with the customer support team on the location of its servers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pricing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The price of a VPN service shouldn\u2019t be your only consideration when choosing a provider. Still, <strong>the cost of a subscription can be a deciding factor<\/strong> for many users. Some companies offer free VPNs, but they tend to provide a subpar service that might make you wonder if you should use a VPN in the first place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, they might throttle your internet speed or put a data limit on your usage. Most <strong>free VPN services have a limited number of servers<\/strong> dedicated to free users. These servers are often over-cramped, <strong>which leads to slower connections<\/strong>. Others <strong>might sell your data to third-party advertisers<\/strong> or insert intrusive ads into your web browser.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019d like to try out VPN provider options before committing to one, <strong>look for clients who offer free trials<\/strong>. Software with trial versions offers a full VPN service with all the functionality of a paid version, but for a limited time. Free trials can last anywhere between seven and 30 days. After that period ends, you\u2019ll automatically get billed a fee for the VPN access, meaning that you need to be mindful and cancel your trial period before it expires to avoid automatic payments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s best to <strong>avoid free VPNs and instead go with a reliable and affordable premium provider<\/strong> that offers an extensive list of servers, features, and protocols. Like many other services, VPN clients tend to be cheaper when purchased for an entire year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>number of devices you need<\/strong> a VPN for also affects the price. A subscription for one device is cheaper than for ten; however, subscriptions for multiple devices may be more affordable in the long run. \u200b\u200b<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Kill Switch<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When your VPN client loses connection to the server, your actual <strong>IP address becomes exposed<\/strong>. This usually happens when the WiFi connection cuts off, or you\u2019re traveling outside of the VPN\u2019s country jurisdiction.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most <strong>quality VPN providers offer a so-called<\/strong> kill switch in their desktop and mobile apps to prevent this. This fail-safe mechanism immediately disconnects your device from the internet once the VPN protection drops, so your actual IP address is never exposed, not even for a split second.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not all VPNs offer a kill switch feature, so check before you subscribe. When it comes to detailing how a VPN protects you, a kill switch is another great feature that improves VPN protection, keeps your actual IP address obfuscated, and provides a more secure connection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ad-Blocking<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ads are annoying and can also be used to track your online behavior. Fortunately, some VPN providers offer an <strong>integrated ad-blocker<\/strong> in their apps. This feature is usually available for both desktop and mobile devices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>adblocker prevents intrusive ads, pop-ups, and banners from loading<\/strong>. It also stops websites from tracking your online activity and loading malicious scripts that could infect your device with malware.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>An ad-blocker is a valuable addition to any VPN service<\/strong>, especially considering the VPN\u2019s purpose is to provide online privacy and security.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Two-Factor Authentication<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Two-factor authentication (2FA)<\/strong> is an extra layer of security that can be added to your VPN account. It usually takes the form of a code that is sent to your phone or email address whenever you try to log in.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To gain access to your account, someone would need both your password and the code. <strong>2FA is not a common feature<\/strong> among VPN providers, but it will improve the security of your VPN service credentials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">P2P Support<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking to torrent files or use file-sharing services, you\u2019ll need a VPN that supports peer-to-peer traffic. <strong>Not all VPN providers allow P2P activity on their servers<\/strong>, so it\u2019s important to check this before buying a subscription.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When P2P is supported, it allows you to <strong>download and share files<\/strong> without restrictions. This is a valuable feature for people who want to torrent movies, music, and software.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind that some VPN providers stifle P2P traffic to reduce server load. Others offer a <strong>limited number of servers with P2P support<\/strong> in the VPN. The full meaning of throttled service comes down to slow download speeds and interrupted connections.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If torrenting is important to you, contact your service provider\u2019s customer support to check if it supports torrenting and what availability of P2P servers it offers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Customer Support<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Even the best VPN providers<\/strong> occasionally <strong>experience issues<\/strong>. That\u2019s why it\u2019s important to have access to quality customer support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ideally, a VPN network provider should offer <strong>24\/7 live chat support<\/strong>. This way, you can get help with any issues you might be having, regardless of the time of day or your location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some VPNs offer ticket support, which can sometimes take a few hours before you hear back. Other providers offer support only via email, which can take even longer.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When choosing a VPN provider, check what kind of <strong>customer support<\/strong> is available. This valuable service can help you solve problems more efficiently and get the most out of your VPN.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The History of VPN Technology<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The development of VPNs can be traced back to the early days of the internet. <strong>In 1996, a Microsoft employee developed PPTP, the <a href=\"https:\/\/interestingengineering.com\/virtual-private-networks-how-they-work-and-why-you-might-need-one\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">first version of its VPN<\/a> software<\/strong>. It was designed to allow employees to securely connect to their corporate network from anywhere in the world. PPTP quickly became the most popular VPN protocol and is still used today, especially by users who need a reliable VPN for home devices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This protocol kickstarted the development of a virtual private network and all other encryption protocols. Today, <strong>31% of all internet users employ a VPN connection<\/strong>, which is still too low if we want to have newer generations that will know how to protect their online identity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>VPN has become <strong>an essential tool for online privacy<\/strong> and security. The primary purpose of a VPN, by definition, is to provide a private network connection. However, when choosing a VPN provider, there are more features to pay attention to. <strong>A VPN is only as good as its encryption protocol<\/strong>, so select a VPN client that uses the most up-to-date and secure protocols.&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p> 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