In today’s digital age, privacy and security are paramount. During our recent Tech Talk, we discussed the critical role of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in protecting your online activities. Here’s a breakdown of our conversation.
What is a VPN and How Does it Work?
A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, creates a secure connection over unsecured networks. There are three main types:
- Remote Access VPN: Gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic as companies needed secure remote work solutions.
- Site-to-Site VPN: Common in businesses with multiple offices, allowing secure communication between locations.
- Private VPN: Focuses on personal use, providing secure internet browsing from home.
Why Use a VPN?
The primary reason to use a VPN is trust. Many of us assume our providers have our best interests at heart, but this isn’t always the case. A VPN encrypts your data, making it unreadable to anyone intercepting it.
Encryption, as Cybersecurity Specialist Donovan Pillay explained, is like a secret code from childhood. “When you send data over an encrypted line, you are sending all of this gobbled information that only the person with the key can understand.“
VPNs secure your data in transit, preventing man-in-the-middle attacks. However, Donovan clarified, “A VPN is not a tool to protect you from hacking. It protects your data while using the internet but won’t stop a network attack.“
Choosing the Right VPN
When selecting a VPN provider, consider:
- Reputation: Research and choose a reputable provider.
- Cost: Expect to pay $8-$15 per month for a good VPN.
- Device Limit: Ensure the subscription covers all your devices.
- Server Distribution: More servers worldwide provide better security and speed.
Avoid free VPNs, as they often sell your data. Free services lack external audits and are likely to monetise your information. Ensure your VPN provider does not log your activity. Reputable VPNs undergo external audits to verify their no-log policies. Donovan advised, “Check the provider’s data protection plans and audit reports.“
Staying Safe Online
Always use a VPN on public Wi-Fi networks. Airports, cafes, and malls are common targets for data interception. “VPNs protect your data from hackers on public networks,” Donovan explained.
Besides using a VPN, employ endpoint protection against viruses and malware. DNS and site filtering can keep your family safe from unwanted content. Turning off tracking enhances your online privacy, reducing targeted ads.
In conclusion, VPNs are essential for securing your online activities. Use them wisely, choose reputable providers, and combine them with other security measures to stay safe online.e.