What is VPN and How does it Work? {Complete Guide}
Normally, if you connect to the internet data flows freely while you shop, surf, or even perform bank transactions online. This makes your data vulnerable to data leaks and frauds online. In the digital world, nothing really remains private. What can you do If you wish to stay Private even when you are online?
Switch to one of the best free VPN services. A Virtual Private Network ensures security between users and their internet. It encrypts the data in a virtual tunnel which leads to safe browsing. The following advantages come in handy with a virtual private network
- Hides the private information
- Saves data and bandwidth throttling
- Allows access to services blocked in your region
- Scalable Networks
- Reduced support cost
- Secures data
- Allows you to use the internet freely
You can use these networks on Android, iOS, macOS, or Windows platforms. There are a lot of VPN alternatives available. Surfshark is among the most popular VPNs available online. You can try Surfshark for free which allows you to access more than 3200 servers across 65 different countries. Along with the basic functionalities of VPNs Surfshark offers additional features such as a user-friendly interface, enhanced customer support, and a 30-day return policy.
The write-up below mentions all that you need to know about a Virtual Private Network and how it makes a secure choice for your data.
Why is VPN Important?
Almost all the daily tasks are performed online. From being connected to our friends online to bank transactions for major purchases everything can be done with a single click. Make sure all the relevant information does not lie on street. If the data is not encrypted it can end up attracting leaks, frauds, and hackers.
Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can decrease the chances of getting misused or traced by hackers. It blocks access to your personal information, browsing history, or other activities. While choosing a VPN service make sure you check the speed, reputation, features, and encryption type of the protocol. Many users are trapped in the free VPN software that can annoy you with ads and limited download facilities. Moreover, these free alternatives can also compromise the security protocols for encrypting data. Therefore, it is advisable to pick the type of VPN protocol that fits in well with your requirements.
Also Read: Best Free VPN For Mac
Types of VPN Protocols
The encrypted connections used by VPN are referred to as Tunnels. The following list contains the different ways in which a user can set up their VPN connection.
1. Open VPN
The Open VPN is most commonly used protocol. Its encryption is based upon OpenSSL and the SSLv3/TLSv1 protocols. It is available for Windows, Linux, routers, Android, and other platforms. It is considered one of the best choices for VPN service.
2. PPTP
The Point to Point tunneling Protocol i.e PPTP has certain leaks but provides high-speed internet. It is preferred by users who prioritize speed of internet over data security. It is mostly used by users to surpass the limitations of streaming speed.
3. IKEv2/IPsec
The VPN protocol is based on IPSec that enables users to connect and switch networks quickly. The capability to switch quickly makes it a perfect choice for users using the VPN service on their smartphones as smartphone users often switch between WI-Fi and mobile data networks.
4. IPsec/L2TP
The protocol type combines IPSec with L2TP to encrypt data and build a secure connection. This makes the second-best choice after OpenVPN.
5. WireGuard
The WireGuard VPN is a new protocol that is designed to run on Linux with the aim to perform well when compared to OpenVPN or IPSec. The protocol is still in the development phase therefore the OpenVPN remains a safe choice to make.
6. Softether
The Softether is an open-source app that can work on different platforms. But unlike the above-listed protocols, Softether can not run as a stand-alone VPN protocol.
Also Read: Best VPN For Gaming | Establish Secure Connections
How does a VPN work?
The working of a VPN might be a little complicated, but it is simple to connect to a VPN. Just subscribe to the VPN provider and download the software. Install the VPN with help of the instructions displayed on the screen. Once done, choose the server that you wish to connect to and wait till the VPN completes the rest of the process.
Once the VPN is connected it encrypts the data traffic and shares it to VPN server in a secure connection format. The data is now decrypted by the server to share it with the internet and receive a reply. The receiver traffic from the internet is encrypted and then again shared with the user. This data is further decrypted for you to understand or use.
The complete working process of VPN happens in the background and no noticeable change is observed while you use the network software.
The overall working of VPN can be summed up in the following 4 steps.
- Create your account and Sign up on the website of VPN software you wish to download.
- Download the software and Install it by following the on-screen instructions.
- Launch the software and log in with your credentials.
- Select the VPN server you wish to use and turn it on for your device.
Also Read: Free vs. Paid VPN: Which is Better for Security Management?
Closing Lines on Virtual Private Network
With help of a VPN despite being anonymous online, you can stay safe and protected. Although there are multiple alternatives available, users often subscribe to VPN services to keep the connection secure. You can find the best providers for VPN or even create your VPN to keep all your data encrypted.
If you need any further assistance feel free to drop your questions below. For more technical blogs, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter.
