VPNs, or virtual private networks, are fast becoming an essential for the majority of people who value their privacy online. However, there are so many more benefits to using one than just security – from online gaming to protection against data breaches.
VPN software – illustrative photo. Image credit: Dan Nelson via Unsplash, free license
Secure Your Data
Without the use of a VPN, any activity undertaken on the internet can be tracked by third parties, like an internet provider, or even by insidious hackers or cybercriminals. This means that sensitive information like passwords or bank details could be seen by unwanted eyes. VPNs stop this from happening by encrypting all information, private or otherwise. The threat of third parties accessing your data is particularly high when using public Wi-Fi, such as in an internet cafe or library, so it’s recommended to always use a VPN when in these situations.
Enhance Online Gaming
Depending on where you are in the world, there may be certain games or sites that are not available in your country, which is where VPNs come in. By no longer being trackable via location, virtual private network users are free to access a different region’s game selection, such as online casinos. For example, Lucky Block is a VPN friendly casino that can be reached from anywhere, and offers users a secure and immersive gaming experience.
Change Your IP Address
Every time we access the internet, our IP address can be utilized to track our identities and locations. The main reason for this is so for future relevant ad targeting, which many want to avoid. In this case, using a VPN is essential, as any data is routed through a different IP address, which cannot be linked to any personal information.
Online Privacy
Protecting online privacy is paramount to so many of us these days, with stories of cyber attacks and hacking constantly in the news. A VPN is one of the easiest ways to ensure that what you do online stays private, and is not open to the many interested parties. An internet service provider is the entity most likely to pry on data and sell it to commercial corporations or even government institutions. These groups will then use it to inform marketing strategies or to learn more about certain demographics. Through encrypting data with a VPN, users can ensure that their information is not being sold without their consent.
Avoid Bandwidth-Throttling
You may not have heard of bandwidth-throttling, but you’ve almost certainly experienced it. It is the practice of an internet service provider deliberately slowing down bandwidth when their customer is on a certain website or using a particular service. There are many reasons for it, such as going over a data cap or congestion, but regardless of this it’s something that the majority want to avoid. Using a VPN means that your traffic is encrypted, and can therefore bypass any limitations set by a provider.