The desire for internet privacy has never been higher. But in the age of social media and data hackers, it’s harder than ever to keep your sensitive information safe. Many people have taken to using VPNs to add an extra layer of security to their browsing.
The benefits of using a VPN are too great to miss out on. Here’s why you should install a VPN today.
1. Become Invisible
VPNs, or virtual private networks, are mainly used to hide your location when using the web.
When you connect to a VPN, you’re connecting your device to a server somewhere across the world. This allows you to use that server’s internet connection, and borrow its IP number. If a website tries to track your IP address, they’ll see the VPN server IP instead of yours.
Blocking your IP means you can’t be tracked, and can’t be advertised to as easily. Your ISP won’t be able to see your personal information or passwords. It ensures your privacy on the web.
2. Fight Data Throttling
Some ISPs will slow your connection if you’re using what they consider “too much” bandwidth.
This practice is called data throttling. It might happen if you’re an online gamer, a torrent user, or a heavy streamer.
When you use a VPN, your ISP can’t see what you’re up to. They can’t measure your usage activity, meaning they can’t rightfully throttle your data. If your connection gets faster when you use your VPN, your data may be getting throttled.
3. Bypass Region Locks
A lot of websites make content unavailable to certain regions.
Netflix, for example, region locks certain content. The U.S. Netflix has much different content than the Canadian or U.K. Netflix.
A good VPN lets you select which country you want to reroute your connection through. So, if you’re a Canadian who wants to watch U.S. Netflix, just select a U.S. based VPN server. The next time you log into Netflix, you’ll be greeted with the U.S. selections.
This works with any and all region-locked content on the web. From YouTube videos to Hulu, this is one of the main reasons people use VPNs.
4. Stay Safe on Public Wi-Fi
Public wi-fi isn’t very secure.
Hackers love public wi-fi because it lacks the security features of home wi-fi. A hacker can steal your personal data if you’re both connected to the same public wi-fi.
When you hide your connection with a VPN, it’s hidden from hackers on public wi-fi. The VPN encrypts your data, essentially giving you a private wi-fi connection. Hackers are going to have a very hard time getting through that extra wall.
5. Save on Travel
If you’ve ever traveled, you know how expensive airplane tickets can be.
But countries with a lower cost of living have access to lower flight prices. If you set your VPN to a location with a lower cost of living than your own, the flight prices will be cheaper. You can still use your card info, email, etc. to get the tickets, but at a significant discount.
Airline companies are always gouging their prices. Who doesn’t want to get a little revenge?
6. Bypass Censorship
Not every country is as free as the United States.
China, for example, has a total ban on sites like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. You will not be able to access them, even as a visitor to the country. This can make communicating with your family and friends a bit of a struggle.
Simply set your VPN to another country and you’ll regain access to your favorite sites. The government won’t be able to track you down or see that you’re using a VPN.
You’ll want to download your VPN before going to the censored country, though. Many VPN sites are censored, too.
7. Browse Safely on All Devices
Most VPN companies allow their service to be used on all devices.
This includes tablets, laptops, and cellphones. Whether you’re on a PC or a Mac, you’ll be able to find a reliable VPN service. Usually, you can sign up for a VPN without having to pay additional prices for separate devices.
The best VPN for Mac will likely also work on your iPhone, or a PC if you’re the kind of person who likes to use both. A good VPN company has you covered no matter how you want to browse.
8. Make File Sharing Easy
Some businesses will set up a VPN connection for filesharing.
Any computer connected to your VPN is considered part of the local network. That means anyone connected can access shared folders and files. Users can move large files between machines with ease this way.
Setting up a VPN connection isn’t as easy as connecting to a pre-established VPN. But it’s not that hard, either. If you’re running a business, the benefits could greatly outweigh the costs.
9. Browse Faster
Some VPN users notice a significant speed boost when connected to their VPN.
This is especially true if your bandwidth or data is being throttled. But even if it’s not you might notice speed boosts. The VPN server might have a more reliable connection than your home network.
You’ll have to do some experimenting with different networks to find a faster one. Some might even be slower depending on where they’re broadcast from. Try a few different VPN servers and see what it does for your speed.
Reap the Benefits of Using a VPN
The benefits of using a VPN are simply too great to be ignored.
A lot of people see VPNs as something for criminals or those who want to pirate content, but that’s just not true. Everyone deserves internet privacy and the best way to ensure that privacy is with a VPN. The other benefits should be seen as a tasty cherry on top of the cake.
No matter who you are, you should consider signing up for a VPN. Your private information will thank you.
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