01/04/2022
Why Everyone Should Use A VPN? Even Non-Techies
If you’ve ever connected to a public Wi-Fi network, worried about how your data was being used by your internet service provider, or simply wanted to unlock Netflix shows that aren’t available in your area, you should consider using a VPN, or virtual private network.
A VPN is a service that both encrypts your data and hides your IP address by bouncing your network activity through a secure chain to another server miles away.
This obscures your online identity, even on public Wi-Fi networks, so you can browse the internet safely, securely, and anonymously.
- Security on Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi is convenient but comes at the expense of security. When you’re answering emails at a local coffee shop or absent-mindedly scrolling through social media at the airport, someone may be tracking your online activity.
Using a VPN protects your data while you are on other networks, hiding your browsing history, banking information, account passwords, and more from ill-intentioned internet strangers.
- Data Privacy From Your Internet Service Provider
While connected to your home Wi-Fi, you are less likely to be attacked by strangers than on a public connection. However, your data is still vulnerable.
Your internet service provider — Comcast, Spectrum, Verizon, or other company whom you pay for Wi-Fi each month—can access all your internet data.
This data can be collected and sold to advertisers even if you’re using the “private” browsing function, and it can be dangerous in the wrong hands in the case of a data breach.
- Data Privacy From the Apps and Services You Use
Your Internet Provider isn’t the only potential liability that you’ve brought into your own home. Unfortunately, many of our favorite apps and internet services—most notably Facebook—have been called out for the way they’ve used the data of their users.
A VPN will prevent apps and websites from attributing your behavior to your computer’s IP address. It can also limit the collection of your location and browser history.
- Security When Working Remotely
One benefit of a VPN is its data encryption features. Encryption, or putting data into a coded format so its meaning is obscured, allows you to keep confidential information safe.
If you are an individual thinking about investing in a VPN for your company, one benefit is that workers can connect to your office network and look at sensitive materials on their own devices while away from the office. As remote work seems a possibility even after the pandemic ends, a VPN is a helpful investment to keep confidential material safe off-site.
