- On
- 15 Sep 2021
- Reading time
- 4 minutes
Internet security is critical. Your devices need to be protected not only from viruses, but also from malicious attacks from hacking activities. Our computers and devices store sensitive data and files such as our bank accounts, passwords, paperwork, and documents. An antivirus programme simply isn’t enough to protect our computers and data anymore. That’s why VPNs have become so vital for Internet users today.
A VPN service is a must-have for anyone doing any sort of activity online. That’s a broad statement to make, but it is true. To better understand the benefits of a VPN, you must first take a step back to learn what a VPN actually is and what it does. A VPN (virtual private network) is a way for Internet users to keep their identities private while online and protect their Internet traffic. This makes it more difficult for hackers to penetrate our networks, files, and devices. A VPN is similar to your computer’s antivirus software and usually runs as an app. A VPN works by connecting users to a VPN server, which then directs your Internet traffic through an encrypted channel that no-one else can view – including your Internet Service Provider (ISP). People most popularly use VPN services to keep their online activity private and to enable users to access websites that might otherwise be restricted for some reason (such as when websites are restricted by certain types of users and users connecting to their websites from other countries sometimes barred by some website administrators). Even large companies use VPN services to connect their WFH (Work From Home) employees to their local network to maintain that local network’s security and privacy for their company’s intranet, work servers, and operating systems to complete their work.
VPNs can also be used to change your device’s location on the Internet. How that works is that a VPN connects a user to a secure network which then dials out to the Internet via an encrypted channel. A VPN can be used to change your computer or other device’s IP address (which is your device’s unique number that identifies you and your location in the world on the Internet). With a new, scrambled IP address you can browse the Internet as if you were in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, South Africa, China, Japan, or pretty much any other country in the world. Why would you need to do this? Some streaming or gaming websites restrict users from certain countries from viewing specific content. This is usually to avoid content laws and content agreements with sponsors, content creators, and other reasons. With a scrambled VPN, you can sidestep that to browse the Internet at your free will.
A VPN service also shields and protects your identity from websites, apps, crawlers, and services that track your online activity. Your VPN service will prevent your Internet Service Provider (ISP), mobile carrier, and others from tracking your online activity thanks to their complex encryption codes and software.
When using a VP service, your Internet access is also protected from security breaches. The VPN service blocks your Internet access from packet sniffing, rogue Wi-Fi networks, and other forms of malicious attacks. This is essential for those working from home or accessing untrusted public Wi-Fi networks. Hackers are working tirelessly to penetrate vulnerable Internet users for their credit card details, sensitive information, and to covertly install malicious viruses on your computer, laptop or other device to track your online activity to then steal information from you.
With literally thousands and thousands of VPN services to choose from on the Internet, where do you begin to search? Reading the opinions of real-world people that have shared their experiences and feedback about using VPNs, different services and from different service providers, you’ll be able to find one that offers you the best tools, at the best price, and the best customer service support. The information in customer reviews will be able to help you to make better-informed decisions on which VPNs to buy and which ones to avoid.
That’s why PrivacySharks is one of the most trusted names in the Internet Security and Privacy industry. PrivacySharks is a platform for reviews of VPN services to help you make the right choice for your Internet security and privacy needs. This website offers ranks VPN services by customer reviews and feedback. You’ll also be able to find the best deals on monthly or yearly subscriptions, and new users will also find free trials to test out before signing up to their preferred VPN service.
The best ways to make full use of your VPN service is to use it for when you’re gaming, torrenting, shopping online, when you’re away from your trusted Wi-Fi network such as when you’re travelling, streaming, and on a public Wi-Fi network. Whichever VPN service you choose, make sure it a trusted service provider that will help you protect your online identity and enhance your Internet security.