VPN stands for "Virtual Private Network" and is used to replace your physical
Internet connection through a private service instead of an Internet Service
Provider (ISP). [VPN](https://www.vpnblade.net/) acts as a bridge between the user and the Internet
by hiding their IP (Internet Protocol).
When users connect to the Internet using a VPN, their computers send data to
the Web through an encrypted connection created by the VPN. The VPN then
forwards the request and sends the response from the requested website back
to the connection.

VPN is used on non-secured networks, such as the Internet.
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have information about their
customers’ activities. Some unsecured WiFi hotspots can also be an easy way
for attackers to obtain users’ personal information.
Internet users can prevent threats by using VPNs.VPNs can hide a
user’s browser history, Internet Protocol (IP) address, geographic location,
network activity, and device. No one on the same network can see what the
VPN user is doing. This makes VPNs the obvious tool for protecting yourself
online.
However, a VPN doesn’t provide complete privacy because your ISP can see
the size of the traffic, but not the content.
VPN apps are often used on mobile devices to block data transfers or access
restricted websites. Don’t compromise on secure access with a mobile VPN that includes private browsing. However, private browsing doesn’t interfere with access, it’s simply a browser setting that prevents the collection of your user’s data.
VPN technology was originally designed to allow remote entrepreneurs to securely connect to network partners to access resources while away from the office. Although VPN is still used in this way, the term now generally refers to a commercial VPN service that allows users to access the Internet privately from its own server.

# Why use a VPN?
# 1. Hide your private messages
Websites and applications can constantly monitor your online activities and analyze the information they collect. A VPN helps keep the information you send and receive anonymous and secure by preventing web browsers and others from accessing your connection.

# 2. Avoiding Limited Information

Internet works slow when someone use certain data, and your ISP slows down your service as a result. With a VPN, your data is not only protected from the access of your ISP and others, but you won’t be subject to data caps either. ISPs can set data limit to limit traffic. It can prevent network disruptions by encrypting your device’s network traffic. This prevents anyone on the same network from seeing details of your website traffic and hides your location.

# 3. Access region-blocked services

Some VPNs can access restricted areas of apps and content, like PUBG Mobile, Netflix, and other providers. A VPN can change your IP address, tricking the service provider into thinking you’re browsing from another location or region that allows access. Note: Be sure to check the terms of service to determine what content is allowed on your local streaming service and follow these guidelines. Although using VPN in India is legal, it is rare for the government (police) to penalize locals for using the service.

# 4. Avoid censorship when traveling abroad

VPN can help you bypass geographic restrictions. For example, some countries restrict or restrict access to certain websites (like social media platforms) or censor certain content. However, a VPN can help with access by changing your location. It’s the user’s responsibility to check whether VPN use is legal and
also, it is abiding by the laws of the country the person is living in.

# 5. Sports channels that are not available in your area

Some VPNs can help you access restricted sporting venues. For example, TV
networks like Sky Sports don’t have broadcasting rights in India. However, a VPN will make it possible to watch this channel.

# 6. Offering a cheaper alternative to leased lines

VPNs can provide exceptional storage, especially for businesses. For example, companies can bypass expensive cable rentals and connect offices via VPNs. Instead, they can connect over public infrastructure via cheaper local leased lines or a local ISP's broadband connection.

# 7. Cheaper long-distance calls
VPN can reduce phone bills. For example, instead of accessing your company intranet remotely and using dial-up connections, you can log in to your ISP and activate the VPN connection.

# 8. Provide network scalability
As an organization grows, the cost of setting up a private network increases.
Internet-based VPNs allow businesses to use existing connections and network
resources to provide better service and quality of service, especially to remote and
international locations.

# 9. Reduce support costs Using a VPN
VPN can help businesses reduce the cost of server management because support
can be given to other service providers who can provide support at a lower cost due to their large customer base.
Some of the Popular Used VPNs

Ø [ExpressVPN](https://www.vpnblade.net/deals/expressvpn-coupon-code/)
Ø ProtonVPN
Ø TunnelBear
Ø Surfshark
Ø [NordVPN](https://www.vpnblade.net/deals/nordvpn-coupon-code/)

These are some of the VPNs that are used worldwide.
Types Of VPN

Ø Remote access VPN

It is a secure VPN that is used to access data and applications present in the system remotely.

Ø Site To Site VPN
It is a network that allows multiple networks to communicate securely through an encrypted route.

Ø SSL VPN
A Secure Sockets Layer Virtual Private Network (SSL VPN) is a virtual private network (VPN) that is created using the Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) protocol that is used to create a secure and encrypted connection over a
less-secure network, such as the Internet.
Ø OpenVPN
An OpenVPN is a network that uses open source technologies to encrypt and
secure data over the internet.
An effective VPN hides the following information:
· Your personal IP address
· Your geographic location
· The websites you visit
· The apps you use
· How long you spend on websites and apps
· The files you download or upload
· Torrenting activity

How to set up a VPN on Windows 10
1. Search “Settings.”
2. Click on “Network and Internet” and then choose “VPN.”
3. Click “Add VPN Connection.”
4. Select “Windows (built-in)” for your VPN provider, name your connection under “Connection name,” enter the server name or address, select the VPN type,
5. Enter the type of sign-in and enter your sign-in info. The server name and address will be provided by the VPN service provider.
6. Click on “Save.”
7. Now go back to “Settings,” click on “Network and Internet” then choose “VPN,” and click on your VPN name.
8. Then click on “Connect” and enter a password.
How to set up a VPN on a mobile
1. Go to your Android Settings.
2. Click Network and Internet.
3. Click Advanced.
4. Select VPN.
5. Click the plus sign.
6. Enter your information.
7. Click Save.

Many people don’t know that Android have a built in VPN. This increase the chances of identity hiding from hackers.

Connecting to an [Android VPN](https://www.vpnblade.net/best-vpn-for-android-tv/)
Here are the steps to connect to your VPN in your Android’s settings:
1. Click on Connections.
2. Click on More Connection Settings.
3. Click VPN.
4. Click on the three dots in the upper right corner and hit “Add VPN Profile.”
5. Enter the VPN information.
6. Click Save.

Disconnecting From an Android VPN
To disconnect from an Android VPN, you can either turn off your connection in the VPN app or, again, in Android’s settings:
1. Go to Network & Internet.
2. Click on Advanced.
3. Click on VPN.
4. In the Settings next to the VPN, turn off the toggle.
5. Or click Forget for it to completely forget the network.

VPN in Google Chrome
In Google Chrome, users can install an extension that is available in the Chrome web store and can use it. It is so because the browsers send the information through the proxy server and allow to have a different IP address that hides the user’s identity and location for safety purposes

Disadvantages of VPN
Ø Slower Internet speed
With a VPN, your data has to go through extra encryption and routing processes. This can slow down your connection. If you opt for a top VPN provider, then internet speed would not be affected. Besides, a VPN can increase your speed if your ISP has been slowing down your connection.

Ø Free VPNs: Danger alert
There are many VPN providers worldwide. There is a possibility that your data might be sold on illegal websites or any other websites that are banned. So, usage of free VPNs provide poor security and fewer servers, which can make them slow and unsafe.

Ø Incompatibility with some devices
There are many devices and systems are compatible with VPNs, but some of the devices might not be compatible. For example, smart TVs might not allow to install a VPN. So, there are two ways here: choose a VPN that works on a router and secure your entire home network or a cross-platform VPN.

Ø VPN connection can drop
Nothing is perfect, and so is your VPN connection. For example, a VPN can drop due to server overload. And with the VPN off, your data is left exposed until the connection gets re-established. It will block your Internet connection in case a VPN fails and prevent you from data leaks.

Ø Subscription costs
There are high subscription cost for VPN and there are chances that does not work well with you. But a good VPN only costs a few rupees a month for the safety it gives you. Plus, using a VPN can actually save you money in the long run by giving you other benefits.