Do you know what a VPN is and why you need it? As in any business field, there are acronyms and shortened names that are often thrown around. One such acronym that is critically important to the security of your computers and devices is a VPN. This stands for Virtual Private Network.
What is a VPN?
A virtual private network is basically the creation of a secure connection from your computer or device such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, to another network over the internet. A VPN can give you online privacy and anonymity by creating a private network from a public internet connection.
The VPN market is crowded with options, so it’s important to consider your needs when you’re shopping for one. Consider several questions before finalizing your choice. What is important to you? Do you want to be able to surf the web anonymously by masking your IP address? Are you afraid that your information could be stolen on public Wi-Fi? Are you a frequent traveler who wants to be able to watch your favorite shows while you’re on the go?
Hopefully, the VPN you choose will be able to check off all three of those boxes. Since there are numerous options, services, and reasons to choose a VPN according to your businesses and personal needs, we will leave that discussion for another day. Today let’s look at why you need a VPN to begin with.
What are the Top Reasons You Need a VPN?
Security:
One of the top reasons why users choose a VPN is the security function that can give them peace of mind, especially if a job requires frequent travel. If you are a traveler, do you find yourself concerned about Wi-Fi security in airports, hotels, and even coffee shops? Informed computer users know that these connections can leave their personal information vulnerable to someone eavesdropping on any data you are accessing. This man-in-the-middle scenario means that someone could maliciously gain access to your information as you are surfing the web, logging into your email, or checking your bank account. VPN services establish a secure and encrypted connection to provide greater privacy than even a secure Wi-Fi hotspot.
Privacy:
A VPN is like creating a data tunnel between your local network and an exit node in another location. That means that even if you are working remotely or traveling, you will have the ability to access your favorite apps and websites while on the go. This means that users gain at least some anonymity online by hiding the originator’s true location. It also means that if you travel and still want to be able to access your favorite Netflix shows, you will be able to! In addition, a VPN gives a sense of privacy from your service provider by hiding your search history.
Why do you use a VPN? There are many reasons and options to choose from. If you want to know more about how a VPN can help protect you, contact M&H Consulting at 1-866-964-8324 or visit our website.
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