VPNs may sound intimidating, but these are the reasons why you should consider using a VPN. Many people will recommend that you need a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to guarantee your privacy and security when browsing the web. A VPN can create an encrypted connection between a VPN server and you, which limits others from recognizing what you do online and from where you do it.
That is fine, but, from a practical point of view, what does it mean? What are the benefits of using a good and reliable VPN? Here, we are going to explain to you eight reasons why you should use a VPN:
- Make secure online purchases from another country
Online shopping is a beautiful thing. When you see that “https” or that padlock in your browser, you can be reasonably sure that there are security protocols to keep your personal data and credit card information encrypted… but stay tuned. Not all sites have HTTPS. Do not take risks and avoid online sites without HTTPS.
- Enjoy a secure Internet connection in public places
Who has not spent a few minutes (or hours) online at their favorite coffee shop? We all do it, but public Wi-Fi zones are just that: public. You are sharing that connection with many people. Without a secure VPN, all the information you send and receive is vulnerable to cybercriminals. Moreover, yes, this includes if you are on a PC or your smartphone.
- Get a higher level of protection for online banking
Probably the privacy of your bank account information is very important to you. We all like the convenience of online banking, but it will not be as convenient if your identity is stolen because your Internet connection was not entirely secure. A VPN affords an extra layer of security to give you more peace of mind.
- Access your favorite videos wherever you are
Thinking about taking a trip outside your country? You may be astonished to realize that some of the content offered through your preferred subscription-based video services is not accessible in other countries. A VPN like piratebay proxy allows you to connect to a server located in your state while traveling abroad, so your streaming service believes you are still in your country and allows you to watch your favorite shows.
- Relieve your fears about using the airport Wi-Fi
It is very useful for most airports to provide free public Wi-Fi hotspots, so we all can pass our time doing something while we wait for our flights. Unfortunately, with so many strangers in one place, it also makes the airport a “hot zone” for identity theft. If you must work or play online at the airport, then you should also have a VPN.
- Unlock social networks when you are in other countries
Social networks like Facebook and Instagram are some of the most censored sites in the world. Whether you are a university student who spends a semester abroad or a business traveler who makes frequent trips abroad, a VPN can guarantee that you are up to date with the latest on your home.
- Stay anonymous when buying airline tickets, hotels, and car rentals
While shopping to find the best deal on air tickets, a hotel room, or a car rental, those websites are actually following your activity. The next time you return, the rental price of that vehicle may have increased. Use a VPN and a browser with a high privacy setting (for example, anti-tracking), and you will browse privately online and compare your purchases.
- You can create a fake LAN to play games
Remember that PC game that you and your friend loved to play together before the developer stopped supporting it and turned off the online servers. Well, with a VPN, you can trick your PCs into thinking that you are on the same network and that you play LAN games over the Internet. It also works with older game consoles that are no longer compatible with online services, but that can play over LAN, such as the PS2 and the original Xbox.
So, while we present eight good reasons to use a VPN, let’s be honest, all you really need is one. Moreover, that main reason is this: a VPN is one of the best tools to protect your identity and your data in the digital world. Take the reins of your own safety (and good sense!) And grant yourself the security you deserve.