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Have you ever been concerned about data leaks over the internet, want to evade the prying eyes of the ISP, or wish to watch geographically-restricted content on OTT platforms? It might be time to consider using Virtual Private Network (VPN). 

In this post, we will discuss what a VPN is, how it works and five reasons why you should use a Virtual Private Network.

What is a Virtual Private Network (VPN)? 

A virtual private network, or VPN, is a service offered using software that helps protect your internet connection and online privacy. It protects your digital identities, such as IP address, MAC address, etc., allowing you to browse the internet safely. A VPN also helps users to use public hotspots safely. A VPN encrypts your communication with the internet using security protocols. The data is then encapsulated in an outer layer of encryption, which is called a tunnel. This ensures that your data remains confidential while travelling from your device to the VPN server. The data is then decrypted at the VPN server before being sent to its original destination.

There are three kinds of VPNs available on the market. These are: 

• SSL VPN 

• Site-to-site VPN 

• Client-to-Server VPN 

According to Statista's projection, the global VPN market will rise from 44.6 billion USD in 2022 to 75.59 billion USD in 2027. Another Industry Research Report study said that the SSL VPN market will be the chief driver of this growth, with a projected CAGR of 4.68 percent by 2025. 

How does a Virtual Private Network (VPN) work? 

A VPN routes your device's internet through a private VPN server instead of the one offered by your ISP. The VPN server will mask your system IP and other digital identities to communicate with the destination server. All your system's communication with the server in client-server architecture will pass through an encrypted tunnel.  This makes it appear as if you are accessing the internet from that other location. By doing this, a VPN can bypass internet restrictions, mask your IP address and protect your online privacy.

In other words, the VPN will act as an intermediary between you/the client system and the server, thereby hiding your unique IP address and protecting your identity. Additionally, if someone tries to intercept your data in transit, it will be unreadable (due to an encryption algorithm) until it reaches the destination system. 

Five reasons why enterprises and individuals should use a VPN 

1. Data privacy and protection from mass surveillance

While your home Wi-Fi can ensure more privacy than public Wi-Fi networks, your Internet Service Provider (ISP) still monitors your usage pattern and stores your data. Websites and search engines you use also monitor your usage pattern and sell it to advertisers. But with a VPN in place, your ISP will not be able to track your online activities as your data will be encrypted. The websites you visit will also not be able to track you as your IP address will be masked.

2. Bypassing geo-restrictions

Various OTT platforms and streaming apps like Hulu and Netflix restrict content geographically. Since your IP address holds information about your geolocation (latitude and longitude), it becomes easy for streaming apps to stop you from accessing some of their content. If you use a Virtual Private Network service, you can spoof (virtually) your geolocation to other countries where the content is available and watch it unhindered. 

3. Preventing apps from conducting behaviour analysis

Numerous apps, services, and online platforms try to trace and steal your browsing habits or monitor what apps and services you use on your phone or PC. This data gets mapped and sold to advertisers and private agencies. However, if the VPN masks your IP address or the entire enterprise runs on a private network, trackers won't be able to map that data. 

4. Security on public Wi-Fi

Although public Wi-Fi allows us to stay connected, it comes at the expense of security. Cybercriminals can use fake hotspots or leverage hacking tools to steal our information and other credentials. Attackers can connect to the same network and track your online activities. VPN protects your digital data while using public and unprotected networks by concealing your banking information, browsing history, account credentials, or anything else you may be accessing.

5. Smart device adaptability

Most people come across VPN for the first time when using corporate laptops. The same layer of protection can be added to your personal devices as well. A robust VPN service brings various smart devices such as smartphones and tablets under its protection. This security option allows you to browse or communicate over your devices without worrying about data leaks. 

Are VPNs necessary? 

Yes, VPNs are necessary for individuals and enterprises to keep their data and communication safe from external agents and third-party tracking services. 

As we've seen, VPNs have many applications and can be used to protect your data privacy, unblock geo-restricted content, or enhance security on public Wi-Fi networks.

Do I need a VPN at home?

If you're worried about data privacy and cybercrime, then using a VPN at home is a good idea

Why you need a VPN for your business

• It secures communication so that employees can work from home without worry. 

• It keeps the shared network secure. 

• Since it bypasses geographical barriers, employees can connect to the organization's network anywhere. 

• It protects corporate credentials and other details from getting leaked or tracked. 

Final thoughts

VPNs are an excellent solution for individuals and businesses seeking to evade prying eyes while keeping communication channels private. By encrypting data and concealing your identity, a VPN protects you from being tracked by your ISP or other third-party agencies. If you use public Wi-Fi networks frequently, then a VPN is also recommended to prevent hackers from stealing your data. Lastly, businesses can use a VPN to secure their network and allow employees to work remotely without any data privacy concerns.

Now that you know all about VPNs, it's time to choose a reliable provider and enjoy the internet with peace of mind!