In this part of my series on "IT Stuff" I will touch on the topic of VPN tunnels. I will explain what they are, what they are used for and why everyone needs one.
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. It is like your own private network on the internet. The VPN connects you to another network over the internet like your home network and the company network of your employer for example. When you use VPN to connect to a company network you are creating a virtual private tunnel that uses encrypted (protected) communication.
Security
The traffic through the VPN tunnel is encrypted, this means that the traffic that flows through the tunnel is protected and unreadable for others. If you use a VPN tunnel to download illegal content, it is impossible for others to see what you are downloading (very convenient).
The VPN tunnel ensures that all the communication through the tunnel is protected from prying eyes.Anonymity
When you use a VPN service you are (almost) untraceable. Every internet connection has an IP-address which (in most cases) traces back to the owner of the internet connection. But with a VPN your IP-address changes to that of the VPN connection.Confusing? Let me explain. With VPN you connect to a VPN service that uses its own IP-addresses so that no one can trace it back to you.
VPN services in general don't keep logs but in theory it is possible to tap the VPN service.
- Convenience
The powers that be have not yet embraced the fact that the internet is a global phenomenon. For example it is not possible for me as a Dutch citizen to use U.S. streaming services like HULU. Based on my IP-address these sites are able to determine my location and block me from watching. But with VPN I can connect to a U.S. VPN server, sites like HULU and HBO will think (based on my U.S. IP-address that I am connecting from somewhere in the U.S. and allow me access.
There are numerous paid and free VPN services available.
With free services you will be limited to a certain amount of traffic per month. With paid services you will be able to get unlimited access.
Examples of good VPN services are:
Tunnel Bear
NordVPN
ExpressVPN
Private Internet Access
IPVanish
VPN's are becoming more important and popular because they provide users much needed security and privacy. With transactions on the internet becoming increasingly critical and sensitive it is good to protect yourself. VPN's are also a good tool for hiding your identity, it is a way to anonymously sure the net. And if you ever find that you come across region locked content than VPN will be your way of unlocking those goodies.
A VPN tunnel is a all-round key for you online protection and privacy.
Do you use a VPN? Let me know in the comment section
You hold the Key!
Steemit Statistics: Update! Number of Unique Visitors
The one about Post Promotion
Is the PS4 Pro worth it?
Decentralized networks are changing the world
Destiny 2 review for the Lone Wolves
The one about the Rewards
Can you cut off the internet