paint-brush
Introduction: What Is a VPN?by@angelo-sorbello
1,298 reads
1,298 reads

Introduction: What Is a VPN?

by Angelo SorbelloJanuary 5th, 2022
Read on Terminal Reader
Read this story w/o Javascript
tldt arrow

Too Long; Didn't Read

A virtual private network (VPN) enables you to create a safe and encrypted connection over the internet, bypassing restrictions imposed by some websites, content providers, and even some countries. VPNs come in three main types: **open**, **shared**, and **private**. These three types of VPNs vary by their level of security and the range of features offered. A VPN can be used for different purposes - from unlocking Facebook, YouTube, and Netflix outside the US to getting around [censorship in China].

Companies Mentioned

Mention Thumbnail
Mention Thumbnail
featured image - Introduction: What Is a VPN?
Angelo Sorbello HackerNoon profile picture

The VPN industry is booming, with many new providers popping up every day. It's difficult to tell which VPNs are worth our time and money, so we compiled a list of the top VPN services to help you out.


VPNs have been around for a while now. They started off as an unseen tool used by business corporations and government agencies to share data in a secure way. Today, people can use them for personal use too; we're going to show you the best ones and how they work!


VPN services vary in pricing and features, which is why we've decided to lay out the basics about some of the most popular options on the market right now. You'll want this guide when you're shopping around for your new VPN service provider!

Introduction: What Is a VPN?

A virtual private network (VPN) is a technology that enables you to create a safe and encrypted connection over the internet, bypassing restrictions imposed by some websites, content providers, and even some countries.


VPNs are usually made of two different types of connections:


1. The first type of connection usually takes place on an individual's own computer or device to connect with the VPN service's server.


2. The second type of connection usually takes place between the VPN service's server and the website that one wants to access.

What Are the Different Types of VPNs?

As mentioned before, a VPN (virtual private network) is a technology that creates a secure, encrypted connection over the internet to protect your data.


There are many different types of VPNs available to choose from. Choosing the best VPN for you can be difficult, but it's important to remember that you should always do your research before committing to one.


VPNs come in three main types: open, shared, and private. These three types of VPNs vary by their level of security and the range of features offered.

How to Choose Which VPN to Get

A VPN can be used for different purposes - from unlocking Facebook, YouTube, and Netflix outside the US to getting around censorship in China.


There are many VPN services available online but it's challenging to find a reliable and free one that meets all your needs. It's also difficult to know which best paid VPN service will offer you the best features at an affordable price.


Some of the best providers at the moment are NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark.


Using a VPN

What Are the Advantages of Using a VPN?

Some people believe that VPNs are not worth the time and money. But in reality, they have many advantages that make them a must-have for everyone.


For example, having a VPN can help you protect your data from hackers and snoopers by securing your connection with encryption. And because it hides your IP address, it can also boost your privacy when you’re browsing the internet or downloading torrents.

What Are the Disadvantages of Using a VPN?

There are a few drawbacks to using a VPN. The first is the price. Even though there are many free and low-cost VPN services, they generally have limited features and bandwidth.


Another disadvantage is that some people don’t like the idea of their activities being monitored by third parties, which their ISP or network administrator can use to collect data on them without permission.


This has given rise to virtual private networks as an answer for those who want to maintain their privacy at all costs, but it’s important to be aware that not all VPN services offer the same level of protection and anonymity for users.


A VPN provides a layer of security and privacy by connecting your device directly to a server in another country (or in some cases across the world). This masks your IP address and location.

Conclusion & How to Speed Up Your Connection with a VPN

A VPN is very useful when it comes to protecting your privacy and making your connection faster. It can be used on any device, including smartphones, tablets, laptops and desktops.


While some people might argue that free VPNs are just as good as paid ones, they do not offer the same level of security. Nor do they have the same speed and bandwidth limits. A paid VPN will give you better protection for your data and make your connection much more secure than a free one would.


The best way to use a VPN is by downloading the app on both your phone and computer before business travel or connecting to public Wi-Fi networks at cafes or airports abroad.