Sometimes using the internet can be both exciting and daunting. Especially when it comes to keeping our online activities private and secure, caution is essential. In this case, where privacy is a must, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have become a vital tool for Internet users. But, what is VPN?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, offers a secure and private connection by encrypting internet traffic and hiding the online identity of users.
Keep reading, as this article discusses this topic and understand what is VPN. Furthermore, we’ll also learn the functions, types, and installation processes of VPNs.
What is VPN? How It Works
At its core, VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. Although businesses have utilized VPN technology for remote access for years, commercial VPNs, designed for everyday consumers, have gained significant popularity. When activated, a VPN establishes an encrypted connection or “tunnel” between your device and a remote server operated by the VPN service. All internet traffic is then routed through this tunnel, providing a layer of security and privacy.
A VPN hides your IP address through the use of a globally configured server that has been carefully programmed. This means that, when surfing online with a VPN, the VPN server becomes your data source. This effectively shields your internet activities from your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and other potential third-party entities. The encrypted connection ensures that even if someone were to intercept your data, it would be indecipherable and useless.
Types of VPN
Let’s have a look at the different types of VPNs one by one:
1. SSL VPN (Secure Sockets Layer VPN)
Overview:
SSL VPNs, also known as Secure Sockets Layer VPNs, address the changing nature of online work, where not all employees have access to a designated company laptop. This one is particularly prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic. SSL VPNs allow users to utilize their private devices (PCs, laptops, tablets, or mobile phones) to establish secure connections.
How it Works:
Users access SSL VPNs through an HTML-5-capable browser. SSL VPN comes with a user-friendly interface. The connection is secured with a username and password, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access the VPN.
2. Site-to-Site VPN:
Overview:
Site-to-Site VPNs, as the name suggests, create a virtual network between different physical locations or sites within a company. This type of VPN is designed to conceal private intranets and enable secure communication between them.
How it Works:
Each site connected by a Site-to-Site VPN has its own Local Area Network (LAN), interconnected through a Wide Area Network (WAN). This promotes the seamless transfer of files and resources between the secure networks.
3. Client-to-Server VPN:
Overview:
Client-to-Server VPNs, also known as Remote Access VPNs, empower individual employees to securely connect to their company’s network from a remote location, such as a home office.
How it Works:
To establish a connection, employees install a VPN client on their device, which communicates directly with the company’s network. This type of VPN improves efficiency by allowing employees to act as if they were physically present in the office.
Advantages of a VPN Connection
1. Secure Encryption:
VPNs use strong encryption mechanisms that make it extremely difficult for unauthorized parties to read the data. This is particularly important while utilizing open networks. The reason is, that it protects sensitive information from potential hackers and cybercriminals.
2. Disguising Your Whereabouts:
VPN servers act as proxies, hiding your actual location by routing your connection through servers in different countries. Additionally, reputable VPN services often refrain from logging user activities, ensuring complete anonymity.
3. Access to Regional Content:
VPNs enable users to access regionally restricted content by allowing them to change their location virtually. This is particularly beneficial for those travelling or residing in areas with limited access to specific online services.
4. Secure Data Transfer:
For online work scenarios, VPNs provide a secure connection to access company networks and sensitive files. This makes sure that data remains protected even when sent over the internet.
Ways to Implement VPN On Our System:
Before installation, let’s understand how you can implement VPNs into your systems:
1. VPN Client: Standalone software installed on devices, requiring configuration and authentication through passwords or certificates.
2. Browser Extensions: Added to web browsers for easy switching and configuration, though limited to information shared within the browser.
3. Router VPN: Installed directly on routers for comprehensive protection across multiple devices on the same network.
4. Company VPN: Custom solution created by a company’s IT team for a secure connection to the company’s intranet and server.
Why Should I Use a VPN Connection?
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) play a crucial role in establishing your internet connection and tracking your activities through your IP address. However, trusting ISPs can have privacy implications. This is because they may share your browsing history with various entities.
This risk becomes even more significant when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, where potential threats could occur. A reliable VPN ensures a secure connection, protecting your data from outsiders, especially crucial when using public networks.
What should a good VPN do?
A reliable VPN should offer specific features to ensure comprehensive protection:
1. Encryption of Your IP Address: Hides your IP address from ISPs and other third parties, ensuring your online activities remain private.
2. Encryption of Protocols: Prevents the leaving of traces such as internet history, search history, and cookies, safeguarding your confidential information.
3. Kill Switch: Terminates preselected programs if the VPN connection is suddenly interrupted, reducing the risk of data compromise.
4. Two-Factor Authentication: Enhances security by employing various authentication methods, making it difficult for unauthorized parties to access your secure connection.
How to Use Internet Securely with a VPN:
A VPN encrypts your internet activities in three main steps:
1. Activate Your VPN:
– Establishes a secure tunnel between you and the internet, making it undetectable to ISPs and other third parties.
2. Local Network of the VPN:
– Your device becomes part of the VPN’s local network, and your IP address is changed to that of the VPN server.
3. Surf the Internet Safely:
– With the VPN protecting your data, you can freely browse the internet without compromising your personal information.
Conclusion:
That’s it, a VPN is an invaluable tool for enhancing online privacy and security. By understanding its functions, types, and installation processes, users can make informed decisions to safeguard their digital experiences. Whether accessing regional content, working online, or simply browsing the internet, a reliable VPN ensures a secure and private connection in an increasingly interconnected world.
