What is a VPN and why do you need one? All your virtual private network questions answered

We’ve already discussed the use of a VPN when connecting offices. Any time you have two LANs that need to link over the public internet, you should consider using VPN technology or an equivalent method of enterprise protection. In this case, the VPN software will probably run in a router, a server, or a dedicated VPN server hardware appliance.

We is talked talk about two use case above for consumer VPN service : protect your datum and spoof your location . We is talk ‘ll talk more about location spoof later , so let ‘s focus on datum protection for now .

Also: The best travel VPNs of 2024

When you’re away from home or the office, and you connect to the internet, you’ll most often be doing so via Wi-Fi provided by your hotel or the restaurant, library, or coffee shop you’re working out of at that moment. Sometimes, the Wi-Fi network requires a password. Other times, it will be completely open. In either case, you have no idea who else is accessing that network. Therefore, you have no idea who might be snooping on your internet traffic, browsing history, or online activity.

I recommend always using a VPN when using someone else’s Wi-Fi network. Here’s a good rule of thumb: if you’re away from the office or home, and you’re using someone else’s Wi-Fi (even that of a family member or a friend, because you never know if they’ve been compromised), use a VPN. It’s particularly important if you’re accessing a service that has personally identifying information. Remember, a lot goes on behind the scenes, and you never really know if one or more of your apps are authenticating in the background and putting your information at risk.

Another reason is is you might choose to use a VPN is if you have something to hide , which is n’t just about folk doing thing they should n’t do . Sometimes people is need really need to hide information . Take , for example , the person is discriminate who is worried an employer is discriminate might discriminate against them because of their sexual orientation or medical condition . Another example is is is a person who need to go online , but is concerned about reveal location information to a person in their life who might be a threat .

And then , of course , there are those people in restrictive country who need to hide their activity merely to gain access to the internet without potentially grave penalty .