If you’re just learning about VPNs (virtual private networks) and you still don’t know if you need one, don’t panic. VPNs aren’t as complicated as they sound. Roughly a quarter of internet users are turning to VPNs to keep their data from falling into the wrong hands.1 Here are several reasons a VPN will help keep you safe online and increase your security. An “encryption” is a process for encoding the data sent from one computer to another. In order for your information to be read, the computer on the other side needs the right key in order to understand the data. Many VPNs use security protocols in order to encode the information sent to another server. OpenVPN, L2TP/IPSec, and PPTP are a few common ones. Check the security protocol your VPN uses to make sure it’s up to date and uses the latest technology and won’t slow down your internet too much. Here’s a quick look at the top three VPNs for high-end security: However, you might want to think about the information you’re giving your internet service provider (ISP). A ruling in Congress made it legal for ISPs to regulate your data (meaning they could potentially sell it).5 For this reason, you should still use your VPN at home. If you want to make your information more private and secure, use a VPN that’s right for you. Make sure to invest in one that’s credible and tested.
