Many people (including us) will tell you that you need a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to ensure your privacy and security when browsing the web. A VPN like iTop VPN browser creates an encrypted connection between you and a VPN server, preventing others from seeing what you do online and where you do it from.
That’s all well and good, but from a practical point of view, what does it mean? What are the benefits of using a good and reliable VPN?
Access your favourite videos wherever you are
Are you thinking of taking a trip outside your country? You may be surprised that some of the content offered through your favourite subscription-based video services is unavailable in other countries. A VPN allows you to connect to a server located in your country while travelling abroad, so your VPN Netflix streaming service thinks you are still in your country and allows you to watch your favourite shows.
- Enjoy a secure Internet connection in cafes and other public places.
Who hasn’t spent a few minutes (or hours) online at their favourite coffee shop? You are sharing that connection with a lot of people. Without a secure VPN, all the information you send and receive (including passwords and other personal data) is vulnerable to cybercriminals. And yes, this includes whether you’re on a PC or your smartphone.
- Make secure online purchases from another country.
Online shopping is a beautiful thing. In the US and abroad, when you see that “https” or padlock in your browser, you can be reasonably sure that security protocols are in place to keep your data and credit card information encrypted… but be aware. Not all sites have HTTPS. Play it safe and avoid online sites without HTTPS.
- Alleviate your fears about using airport Wi-Fi.
It’s handy that most airports provide free public Wi-Fi hotspots, so we all have something to do while we wait for our flights. Unfortunately, so many strangers in one place also make the airport a “hot zone” for identity theft.
- Unblock social networks when you are in other countries.
Whether a college student spending a semester abroad or a business traveller taking frequent trips abroad, a VPN can ensure you’re up to date with the latest from home.
- Stay anonymous when buying airline tickets, hotels and car rentals.
Those websites are tracking your activity as you shop for the best deal on airline tickets, hotel rooms, or car rentals. Use a VPN and a browser with high privacy settings (for example, anti-tracking), and you will browse privately online and be able to compare purchases.
- You can create a fake LAN to play games.
Remember that PC game you and your friend used to love playing together, you know before the developer stopped supporting it and shut down the online servers. With a VPN, you can trick your PCs into thinking you’re on the same network and playing or Squid Game streaming over the Internet. This also works with older game consoles that no longer support online services but can play over LAN, like the PS2 and the original Xbox.
