VPN is shorthand for Virtual Private Network and refers to the possibility of establishing a secure network connection while using public networks. VPNs protect your Internet traffic and hide your identity online. Third parties cannot track you online or steal your data, making it harder for VPNs to be used. Encryption takes place immediately.
What is a VPN?
VPNs hide your IP address through the use of a VPN to redirect it via a remote server that is managed by a VPN host. If you use a VPN to surf the internet, your data will be routed through the VPN server.
Your Internet Service Providers (ISP) cannot view the websites that you visit, or any data you transmit and receive online. VPN acts as a filter to turn all of your data into gibberish. It would not matter if anyone had access to your data.
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What are the advantages of using a VPN?
VPN connections disguise your online data traffic and prevent external access. Anyone with network access can view unencrypted data. Hackers and other cybercriminals can't access this data without a VPN.
Secure encryption: An encryption key is required to read data. It would take many years to crack the code if a brute-force attack occurs. Your online activity is hidden on public networks even with a VPN.
VPN servers can disguise your location. Your actual location can't be found because the data is derived from another country. Most VPNs do not keep logs of what you do. While some providers may record your activities, they do not share this information with third parties. Any potential records of user behavior are therefore permanently kept secret.
Access to regional web content: It is sometimes difficult for people from all parts of the world to access local content. Many websites and services have content that is only accessible from certain areas of the globe. To determine where you are located, standard connections use the local servers of that country. You cannot access any content while you are traveling and the same applies to international content. VPN location spoofing allows you to switch between servers in another country to effectively change your geographical location.
Secure data transfer This information is sensitive and requires secure connections. A VPN connection is required to gain network access. VPN connections connect to servers private and employ encryption techniques to minimize data leakage.
What are the benefits of a VPN?
When you connect to the Internet, your ISP will usually set up your connection. Your IP address is what it uses to track you. It routes your network traffic through the servers of your ISP, who can record and display all you do online.
Although your ISP might appear trustworthy, it could share your browsing history with advertisers or the government. Cyber criminals could also attack ISPs. If they hack, it is possible for your private and personal data to be compromised.
If you frequently connect to Wi-Fi networks, this is particularly important. It is possible that someone may be watching your internet traffic, and they could steal your passwords or payment information.
What is a VPN good for?
Your VPN should be able to complete one or more tasks. Compromised VPNs should be also protected. These are some of the key features that you can expect in a complete VPN solution.
- Your IP address is encrypted: This is the primary function of a VPN. You can send and receive data online with no risk to anyone except you and your VPN provider.
- Secure protocols: Your VPN will prevent you leaving any trace, such as your search history, internet history, and cookies. It is important to encrypt cookies because third parties cannot access confidential data such as financial and personal information.
- The kill switch: Your VPN connection can be cut off if it suddenly stops. Good VPNs can identify this and stop pre-selected programs. This reduces the chance of data being compromised.
- Strong VPNs use two-factor authentication. This is where everyone who attempts to log in can be verified by using multiple authentication methods. You might be asked to create a password and then a code will be sent to your phone. Uninvited parties cannot access your secure network.
VPNs: The History
There has always been an effort to encrypt and protect internet browsing data since the beginning of human existence. In the 1960s, the US Department of Defense was already involved in encryption projects for internet communications data.
These were the predecessors to VPN
They created ARPANET (Advanced Research Projects Agency Network), which was a packet switching network that led to development of the Transfer Control Protocol/Internet Protocol.
TCP/IP was divided into four layers: link, internet transport, application, and transport. The internet level allowed local networks to be linked to the global network. This is when the risks of being exposed became apparent. A 1993 collaboration between AT&T Bell Labs and Columbia University led to the creation of a type of modern VPN known as SWIPe. This protocol uses software IP encryption.
Wei Xu, an employee of Microsoft, developed the IPSec network in the next year. This internet security protocol authenticates and encrypts all information sent online. Gurdeep Singh-Pall, a Microsoft employee, created a Peer-to-Peer Tunneling Protocol in 1996.
VPNs in the early days
Singh-Pall was also responsible for developing PPTP. The internet was becoming more popular and there was a need to develop consumer-friendly, advanced security systems. Anti-virus software was already effective at preventing spyware and malware from infecting computers. People and businesses began to demand encryption software, which could conceal their internet browsing histories.
Although the first VPNs were created in 2000, they were almost only used by businesses. After a series of security breaches in particular the 2010s, VPNs became more popular with consumers.
Current use of VPNs
GlobalWebIndex reports that the global number of VPN users increased by more than fourfold in the period 2016-2018. One in five internet users use a VPN when they are restricted or censored in countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and China. The percentage of VPN users in the USA, Great Britain, and Germany is around 5% but it is increasing.
The increasing popularity of content that has geo-restricted access is one of the main drivers behind VPN adoption. Some video streaming sites like YouTube and Netflix restrict access to certain content. You can use modern VPNs to encrypt IP addresses so you look like you are surfing from another country. This allows you to gain access to this content anywhere you want.
How to use a VPN securely surfing the web
Your surfing behaviour is encrypted by a VPN. This key can only be used to decode the VPN's data. This key is only known by your VPN and your computer, meaning that your ISP can't recognize your surfing activity. Although VPNs may use different encryption methods, they all work in the same three-step process.
- Start your VPN once you have connected to the internet. VPN is a secured tunnel that connects you to the Internet. This tunnel is not detected by your ISP or any third party.
- Now your device is connected to the VPN network. You can change your IP address to one provided by the VPN server.
- The VPN secures your data so you can surf the web at your leisure.
Which VPNs do you use?
Although there are many types of VPNs available, you need to be aware of the main three types.
SSL VPN
Many employees don't have the opportunity to use a laptop at work. Many companies were faced with the challenge of having sufficient equipment during the spring 2020 corona crisis. This is when private devices (PCs, tablets, smartphones, and laptops) are often used. Companies often resort to SSL-VPN solutions, which are usually applied via the corresponding hardware boxes.
A HTML-5-capable browser is required in order to access the login page of the company. HTML-5-capable browsers can be used on almost any OS. You will need a password and username to gain access.
VPN Site to site
Site-to-site VPNs are essentially private networks that hide intranets, and permit users to connect to each other's resources.
If you have several locations within your business, with their own local area networks (LANs) and connected to the WAN (Wide Area Network), a site-to-site VPN can be useful. Site-to-site VPNs can also be useful when you have separate intranets that you wish to share files with each other without any users accessing them.
Large companies use site-to-site VPNs most often. These VPNs are more difficult to set up and offer less flexibility than SSL VPNs. They are however the best way to secure communication between and within large departments.
Client-to–Server VPN
You can think of connecting via VPN clients as though you are connecting to your company's PC with an extension cable. The secure connection allows employees to dial in from home and use the network as though they were actually at work. A VPN client needs to be first installed on your computer.
The user is not connected directly to the internet through his/her ISP but instead establishes a connection via his/her VPN provider. The tunnel stage of the VPN journey is shortened by this. The VPN is able to automatically encrypt data prior to it being made public.
It is a more common type of VPN and is especially useful for public WiFi providers. This VPN prevents any third party from accessing or compromising your network connection. It also encrypts all data until it reaches the provider. It prevents ISPs accessing any data which is not encrypted.
This type of VPN access offers greater efficiency and universal accessibility to company resources. An employee may connect with the company's telephone system using a headset to act like he/she is at work. Customers of the company can't tell if the employee is working in the office or at home.
What is the best way to install a VPN?
It is crucial to familiarize yourself with all the methods of installing VPNs before you install them.
VPN Client
For standalone VPN clients, software must be installed. The software must be configured according to the needs of the endpoint. The VPN is set up by the endpoint. It establishes the VPN link, connects to other endpoints, and creates an encryption tunnel.
This step is usually required by companies. The firewall will recognize this connection as authorized by using either a certificate or password. Once the employee has identified himself/herself, they can use credentials that are known to them.
Browser extensions
VPN extensions are available for most browsers, including Google Chrome and Firefox. Opera has its own VPN extension. Users can quickly change and configure VPN extensions while surfing the web.
The VPN connection can only be used for the information shared within this browser. Other browsers, and any other Internet uses (e.g. The VPN cannot encrypt online games.
Although browser extensions may not be as complete as VPN clients they can still provide an additional layer of security for internet users. They are more vulnerable to being hacked.
It is also important to select a trusted extension. Data harvesters might attempt to make use of fake VPN extensions. Data harvesting refers to the gathering of personal information, which marketing strategists use in order to build a profile about you. This allows you to tailor advertising content.
Router VPN
It may be simpler to set up a VPN directly on the router than installing a VPN on every device. If you need to secure devices connected to an unreliable internet connection, like smart TVs or laptops with slow connections, a router VPN can be a great option. You can also access restricted content via your home entertainment system.
It is simple to set up a router VPN. This ensures that your network remains secure and private, as well as preventing insecure devices from logging on. It may prove more challenging to use if the router doesn't have its own interface. It can result in blocked incoming connections.
VPN for Company
The company VPN requires a customized solution and expert support. IT staff usually creates the VPN for you. Your company can log your data and activities. You have no control over the VPN's administration. The company can minimize data leakage risks by using this VPN. A corporate VPN has the main benefit of providing a secure connection to company intranet and servers for all employees, regardless of whether they are connected via their personal internet connections.
What about using a VPN to access my phone or other devices as well?
There are many VPN choices for smartphones, and all other devices that can connect to the internet. If you store personal information, payment details or surf the web on your smartphone, a VPN is a must-have. A lot of VPN service providers offer mobile solutions, many which you can download directly from Google Play and the Apple App Store.
Are VPNs really that secure?
VPNs are not designed to replace anti-virus software. VPN connections can protect your IP address and your internet history but they do not prevent outside intrusion. Anti-virus software like Kaspersky Internet Security is recommended to do so. A VPN alone will not provide protection against viruses, Trojans, bots and other malware.
The malware can infect your computer and steal your information. To ensure the highest level of security, you should use both a VPN and an anti-virus software.
Choose a VPN service provider that is secure
You should also make sure that the VPN service provider you select is trustworthy. Your ISP can't see what you do online, but your VPN provider can. Your VPN provider can be compromised. It is important to choose a reliable VPN provider in order to conceal your Internet activities as well as ensure maximum security.
How to set up a VPN on your phone
There are VPN connections available for both iPhones and Android phones. Smartphone VPN services can be very easy to use. They generally offer the following features:
- There is usually one application that the installation procedure downloads from either the iOS App Store, or Google Play Store. While there are many free VPN services, you should choose a reliable provider for security.
- Because the default settings were designed for smartphone users, the setup is very user-friendly. Log in to your account. The majority of apps will guide you through key features of VPN services.
- The VPN switch works as a toggle for several VPN apps. The option will likely be located on your home screen.
- If you wish to create a false location, server switching can be done manually. Select the country you wish to use from the list.
- Users who require greater data security can use advanced setup. You can choose other encryption protocols depending on the VPN you use. Your app may have diagnostics or other functions. These features can help you choose the best VPN service for you.
- To surf safe online, you only need to activate your VPN connection via the app.
Keep in mind that a VPN can only be as secure as its providers data storage and usage policies. The VPN service will transfer your data to its servers. These servers then connect via the internet for you. Make sure you know the purpose of data logs if they keep them. VPN companies that are serious about protecting your privacy will always prioritize your safety. Kaspersky Secure Connection is a reliable provider.
Only internet data can be encrypted. Any data that is not transmitted via the internet will be lost if it does not connect to a Wi-Fi or cellular network. Your VPN won't encrypt standard voice or text calls.
Conclusion
VPN connections establish a secure connection between your computer and the Internet. All data is encrypted through the VPN tunnel. It disguises your IP address so that it is not visible to anyone when you surf the web. External attacks are also protected by a VPN connection. Because only you have access to the encrypted tunnel data - no one else has the key.
You can access restricted content anywhere on the planet with a VPN. Some streaming services aren't available in all countries. These streaming platforms can be accessed via VPN. Kaspersky offers VPN services for Windows and Apple Macs.
Many VPN providers now offer VPN services for smartphones that keep your mobile data anonymous. The Google Play Store and the iOS App Store both have certified providers. A VPN will not protect your internet traffic, but anonymize it. Your VPN connection doesn't protect against hacker attacks or viruses, Trojans, and other malware. It is recommended that you use an extra trusted antivirus software.