What is a VPN and how does it work?

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, is a tool that encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address. By routing your data through a secure server, it protects your online privacy and prevents unauthorized access. VPNs also let you safely access your accounts, whether you’re at home, traveling, or using public Wi-Fi.

VPN stands for "Virtual Private Network." It refers to a secure, private connection established over the internet. This network encrypts your online activities, making them unreadable to hackers, advertisers, or anyone monitoring your connection. VPNs also let you mask your IP address, which enhances your privacy and gives you more control over your online experience.

The primary purpose of a VPN is to protect your privacy by encrypting your internet traffic and concealing your IP address. This ensures your personal data is secure, even on public Wi-Fi. VPNs also help you safeguard sensitive information, such as banking details, from cyber threats like hackers or data breaches.

A VPN works by creating an encrypted “tunnel” between your device and a remote VPN server. Your data travels through this secure connection, preventing unauthorized access. The VPN server assigns you a new IP address, masking your location and identity. This process ensures your online activities remain private and safe, even when using unsecured networks like public Wi-Fi.

VPNs are versatile tools people use to enhance their privacy, secure their data on public Wi-Fi, and even save some money. They protect your sensitive information from hackers and can help you manage your online identity better so trackers and advertisers can’t accurately profile you.

A secure VPN prioritizes your privacy with advanced encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and additional features like multi-hop connections or RAM-only servers. These features ensure your data isn’t tracked or stored. Secure VPNs also protect against DNS leaks and provide stable, fast connections for safe browsing, streaming, and downloading without sacrificing performance or security.

A VPN connection is the secure, encrypted link established between your device and a VPN server. This connection protects your internet traffic from being intercepted or monitored. By routing your data through the VPN server, it masks your IP address and ensures your browsing remains private, even on insecure networks such as public Wi-Fi.

A proxy server reroutes your internet traffic, masking your IP address but without encrypting your data. In contrast, a VPN offers comprehensive security by encrypting all your traffic. While proxies are suitable for simple tasks like looking up something online, VPNs provide robust protection against cyber threats, making them ideal for privacy-conscious users and secure online activities.

VPN costs vary based on the provider and plan. Monthly subscriptions typically range from $5 to $15, with discounts for annual or multi-year plans, which can lower costs to $2–$5 per month. Some premium providers also offer free trials or money-back guarantees, allowing you to test their services before committing to a subscription.

A VPN number often refers to the virtual IP address assigned to you when connected to a VPN. This number replaces your actual IP address, enhancing your online privacy and making it appear as though you’re browsing from the VPN server’s location. This feature is crucial for protecting your identity online.

A VPN concentrator is a specialized device or software used to manage multiple VPN connections simultaneously. It encrypts and decrypts data for secure remote access, making it essential for businesses that support remote work. By handling a large number of encrypted connections, it ensures employees can safely access company networks and resources from anywhere.

A VPN tunnel is the secure, encrypted pathway through which your internet traffic travels between your device and a VPN server. This encryption shields your data from hackers, ISPs, and other third parties, ensuring it remains private. By masking your IP address and securing your connection, the VPN tunnel helps you browse, stream, and share information safely.

A VPN provider is a company or service that supplies the tools and infrastructure to create a secure, private connection. They offer VPN servers, user-friendly apps, and encryption protocols to protect your internet activities. Reliable providers often include additional features like multi-hop connections, malware protection, and no-logs policies to enhance privacy and security.